The Learning Forest

A Pillar of Humanity: Learning

The Learning Forest is a tribute to the generosity and enduring commitment of Forest of Goodwill Fellows, Joanne and Stephen Pronk — long-time Woodfordians whose contributions have helped shape the story and spirit of this place in quiet and powerful ways.

In October 2024, Joanne and Stephen became the very first Fellows of the Forest of Goodwill. Over the course of seven days, three generations of the Pronk family — siblings, daughters and sons-in-law, and young grandchildren — gathered at Woodfordia to plant the first trees of what would become the Learning Forest. It was an intimate and deeply meaningful beginning, grounded in love, legacy, and shared purpose.

During The Planting in May 2025, this forest was expanded by the wider community, who joined the Pronk family in adding to the grove. Together, they planted trees that honour learning in all its forms — from formal knowledge to lived wisdom, from lessons passed between generations to truths uncovered by experience.

Stephen is known among family and friends for saying, with his trademark humour and humility, that he’s learned so much from his mistakes over the years, he’s even considering making a few more — just to keep learning. It’s this generous and open-hearted approach to learning — one that embraces imperfection, reflection, and growth — that lies at the heart of the Learning Forest.

To learn from our actions, to reflect with humility, and to remain open to the quiet wonder of discovery — these are the values this forest embodies. Nestled beside Goodwill Way beneath the Prayer Wheel on Ceremony Hill, the Learning Forest invites all who pass by to consider what it means to grow in understanding, and to keep learning, always.

“For 300,000 years, mammals have learned. Humans, newer, gaze forward. The Learning Forest sows knowledge for descendants who will explore, guided by nature. Learning drives exploration. Let’s invest in curiosity today, ensuring a brighter, wiser tomorrow for all.”

— Stephen Pronk, May 2025

Stephen (left) and Joanne (2nd from right) with daughters Monique (2nd from left) and Louise (right) planting the first trees in the Healing Forest, October 2024

Costa and Dirtgirl in the procession for The Planting Ceremony to honour the Learning Forest, The Planting 2025