About us.
We are a small studio based in Barcelona, creating travel guides and journals designed especially for kids.
We believe travel is not just about where you go, but how deeply you experience it. Alongside our books, we run children’s journalling workshops that encourage curiosity, reflection and creativity in young travellers.
At the heart of our work is a simple idea. Families benefit most from real conversations, shared moments and noticing the world together. While screens and wifi will always have their place in modern travel, we believe journalling offers something different. A chance to pause, look up, and truly take part in the journey.
Our books are designed to go beyond travel too. They can be used at home on a quiet afternoon or a weekend walk, helping children turn their own city into a place of discovery. Through prompts, activities and space for reflection, children are encouraged to see the bigger picture, notice the small details, and find adventure in everyday life.
We aim to encourage children to use all their senses when exploring the world. In doing so, they begin to build awareness, gratitude and a deeper connection to their surroundings.
I am because we are.
Ubuntu is one of our core pillars and runs through everything we create. It reminds us that we are shaped by one another, and that travel and learning are shared experiences. With every book purchased, a portion of funds goes towards conservation and education projects.
We want to foster positive awareness in children through curiosity. When families explore together, reflect together and stay curious together, they grow together. And those shared memories become the stories they carry for years to come.
Each of our journals also highlights a Local Expert, celebrating women working in conservation and sharing their knowledge, stories and impact. We have partnered with The Bushbabies, The Sloth Conservation Foundation and The Black Mambas, who share their valuable insights in our books.
Meet Misché and Kat.
Misché
Co-founder, writer, photographer
Misché, a photographer and former river guide, safari guide, and marketer, has always been on the lookout for new experiences and adventures. It was through these pursuits that her love for sunrises began, and it’s a love that she has happily passed onto her kids. Now, armed with her camera and trusty journal, she chases adventure and beauty near and far, writing magical moments for Zwela Journals.
Kat
Co-founder, illustrator, designer
Kat grew up in South Africa, and it was there that she began her foray into art and illustration. Scribbling and doodling her way across the world, her pens and paper always close at hand in her pocket, in case inspiration struck. Let’s just say she hasn’t stopped drawing yet.
Work with us.
Zwela works with hospitality and travel partners to design custom kids travel journals tailored to their location, wildlife, and guest experience. Every journal carries the same heart that makes a Zwela book special: maps to dream over, biome guides, thoughtfully prompted journal pages, daily gratitude check-ins, and games for the in-between. We bring your destination to life through our writing, illustration, and design.
- Safari lodges and game reserves
- Boutique hotels with families in mind
- Tour operators specialising in kids and family travel
- Wildlife and conservation organisations
- Schools and educational tour groups
Let’s create something together.
Have a question, an idea, or a project in mind? Drop us a line and we will be in touch. You can also email us directly at hello@zwelajournals.com .
From South Africa to Barcelona, with love.
A shared South African heritage brought Misché and Kat together in Barcelona, and that is where Zwela is made today. Every journal carries a little South African heart, a little Mediterranean light, and a lot of love for the kids it is built for.
Stay in touch.
We love hearing from families using Zwela on their adventures. Email us at hello@zwelajournals.com or find us on Instagram at @zwelajournals.
