About us

Our ethos

We are a registered nonprofit organisation, and the centre’s ethos and culture are broadly based on Buddhist principles and meditation techniques. Emoyeni’s approach includes the practice of mindfulness and an attitude of non-harming towards all living beings. We welcome anyone – Buddhist and non-Buddhist alike – who has a sincere interest in cultivating wisdom and compassion as a way of life. Our aim is to provide an atmosphere of peace and tranquility conducive to the practice of meditation: a safe space where the weary can find a moment of rest and peace away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Our ethos

We are a registered nonprofit organisation, and the centre’s ethos and culture are broadly based on Buddhist principles and meditation techniques. Emoyeni’s approach includes the practice of mindfulness and an attitude of non-harming towards all living beings. We welcome anyone – Buddhist and non-Buddhist alike – who has a sincere interest in cultivating wisdom and compassion as a way of life. Our aim is to provide an atmosphere of peace and tranquility conducive to the practice of meditation: a safe space where the weary can find a moment of rest and peace away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The story of Emoyeni

Emoyeni is a Zulu word meaning ‘Place of the Spirit’. The retreat centre is situated on the northern slopes of the Magaliesberg mountains, bordering the Cradle of Humankind.

Emoyeni was founded in 2000 by Mervyn Croft, who continues to guide the life of the centre. The farm Rooi Ivoor, located in the Buffelshoek Conservancy, was purchased and renamed Emoyeni. Over time, the existing farm buildings were carefully renovated, and a stupa and meditation hall were constructed.

Through artful landscaping, the addition of paths and benches, and ongoing care, the once-neglected farmland has been transformed into lush gardens that support the atmosphere of silence, mindfulness and retreat that now characterises the centre.

The story of Emoyeni

Emoyeni is a Zulu word meaning ‘Place of the Spirit’. The retreat centre is situated on the northern slopes of the Magaliesberg mountains, bordering the Cradle of Humankind.

Emoyeni was founded in 2000 by Mervyn Croft, who continues to guide the life of the centre. The farm Rooi Ivoor, located in the Buffelshoek Conservancy, was purchased and renamed Emoyeni. Over time, the existing farm buildings were carefully renovated, and a stupa and meditation hall were constructed.

Through artful landscaping, the addition of paths and benches, and ongoing care, the once-neglected farmland has been transformed into lush gardens that support the atmosphere of silence, mindfulness and retreat that now characterises the centre.