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Re-imagining parks and public spaces to transform lives and communities
“Fueled by Passion, Driven by Purpose”
Welcome to Academy of Leisure Sciences Africa
The Academy of Leisure Sciences Africa (ALSA) is a globally connected network of professionals committed to transforming public, corporate, and residential environments. Our mission is to design vibrant, healthy spaces that foster well-being, enhance awareness of green areas, and protect the natural environment for future generations.
Operating at the intersection of parks, leisure, and recreation, ALSA contributes to shaping effective policy frameworks, conducting impactful research, and delivering specialised services. We support the planning, management, and stewardship of public parklands and recreational spaces that enrich communities across Africa.
Our Vision
To be a leading voice in the transformation of leisure, parks, and recreation landscapes across Africa and the world—building vibrant, healthy, inclusive environments where people can thrive and nature can flourish.
Our Mission
As a professional practice, ALSA aims to:
- Foster partnerships with like-minded professionals and organisations across the globe.
- Champion innovative design and planning of public spaces that support well-being, active lifestyles, and environmental stewardship.
- Advocate for the importance of green and recreational spaces in communities.
- Inform public policy and contribute to frameworks that improve parks, recreation, and leisure services and management.
- Conduct research that deepens understanding of leisure, parks, and healthy environments.
- Deliver high-quality consulting, services, and management support for park systems and recreational settings.
Our work ethic integrates scientific evidence based research, strategy, advocacy, and practical implementation to uplift communities and promote sustainable living.
Policy & Framework Development
We supported the creation and refinement of policy and educational frameworks and that enhance how leisure and public spaces are delivered and experienced across sectors.
Research & Innovation
Through rigorous research, we generated insights that shape best practice in parks, open space planning, and leisure management, with a strong emphasis on social justice, equity and inclusion
Design & Management Services
We offer professional services in planning, designing, and managing public, corporate, and residential environments to encourage healthier, more active lifestyles.
Partnerships & Collaboration
ALSA partners with organisations, universities, public service agencies, non-profits, and professionals to foster cross-sector collaboration and share knowledge that strengthens the field of leisure sciences.
Why It Matters
Green and recreational spaces play a vital role in human health and community well-being. By thoughtfully integrating parks, green corridors, and leisure environments into our cities and neighbourhoods, we help:
- Improve physical and mental health
- Enhance social cohesion
- Promote environmental stewardship through greening and rewilding efforts
- Support sustainable urban and rural development
These spaces are not luxury add-ons—they are essential foundations for primary healthcare, resilient, and thriving societies across the lifespan and abilities.
Our Impact 1997 – 2024
The Academy of Leisure Sciences Africa (ALSA) plays a meaningful and growing role in shaping healthier, greener, and more inclusive environments across Africa.
Bridging Research and Practice
ALSA facilitates knowledge exchange and innovation through international congresses, online webinars and workshops, that bring together academics, practitioners, policymakers, and students to explore trends, challenges, and creative solutions in leisure, parks, and public space design.
Global and Local Collaboration
By partnering and aligning with organisations such as the World Leisure Organization, TALS, ANZALS, JSLRS, ISA (various research committees), LSA, CALS, NRPA and other regional leisure associations, ALSA helps connect African leisure initiatives with global best practice, curriculum and policy development, and professional networks.
Informing Policy and Planning
ALSA’s work contributes to the development of frameworks that improve public space planning and service delivery—helping governments, municipalities, and communities rethink how parks and recreational spaces are designed and managed.
Advancing Health, Environment & Inclusion
Through advocacy and thought leadership, ALSA emphasises the importance of green and recreational spaces in promoting active lifestyles, environmental awareness, and community well-being—addressing long-term public health and social equity goals.
Educating and Empowering Stakeholders
ALSA’s research, programming, and events create platforms for learning, building capacity, and inspiring professionals and communities to implement evidence-based strategies that enhance leisure access and quality across diverse contexts.
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