What inspired you to work for Ngala Wilderness?
I have a deep passion for photography, wildlife, conservation, and being outdoors. By teaching people the art of photography, people can grow and hopefully gain a passion for all of the above, as well as make a difference and help showcase animals and get attention to issues regarding our wildlife conservation through their images.
Volunteer during photography internship
Describe a typical day at work.
A typical day as a wildlife photographer in South Africa starts before sunrise, tracking animals in golden light. Hours are spent patiently observing these animals, waiting for the perfect moment, and taking hundreds of photographs. Afternoons are for editing and gear preparation for the next day. Evenings bring new adventures, as the bush comes alive again after sunset.
Why do you do what you do?
I love wildlife photography because it allows me to connect with nature and tell powerful stories through my photographs. Every moment in the wild is unique and unpredictable, offering a chance to capture raw beauty, emotion, and the spirit of the natural world, doing all this and helping people to see the beauty and inspire others to protect it.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of being a wildlife photographer is witnessing nature in its raw, unscripted moments up close. Capturing the emotion, power, and beauty of wild animals in their natural habitat is both humbling and exhilarating. Every day brings a new story to tell through my lens. Every photograph is special and unique, and no scene with the same animals will ever result in something not worth photographing.
Capturing nature on a forest path
What advice would you give your pre-travel self?
I will tell myself to dive in with an open mind and heart. The Ngala Wilderness photography internship isn’t just about taking great photographs; it is about learning patience, respect for nature, and the power of visual storytelling. Be ready for early mornings, unexpected moments, and deep inspiration. This experience will shape your craft and your connection to the wild in unforgettable ways.
What makes Ngala Wilderness special?
Ngala Wilderness and Dalerwa Photography offer a unique blend of conservation and creativity in South Africa. Ngala provides immersive volunteer experiences in the Waterberg Biosphere, engaging participants in leopard monitoring, habitat restoration, and anti-poaching efforts. Dalerwa Photography complements this by capturing the wildlife, landscapes ,and events by using powerful imagery to raise awareness and support for wildlife conservation. Together, they create a platform where volunteers not only contribute to meaningful environmental work but also document and share their journey, inspiring others to join the cause.
Why should someone choose Ngala Wilderness over competitors?
We believe that experiencing the beauty of nature can inspire people to take part in conservation initiatives. Our work is approached with positivity and resilience, aiming to make the journey toward achieving our vision an enjoyable one. We are deeply dedicated to shaping people's lives, as it lies at the heart of our philosophy and drives everything we do.
Rhino sighting
What hopes do you have for the future of Ngala Wilderness?
Ngala Wilderness holds great promise for the future, aiming to deepen its impact on wildlife conservation and community engagement. As more passionate volunteers join, the project hopes to expand habitat restoration efforts, support endangered species, and strengthen anti-poaching initiatives. There's also a strong focus on education, empowering local youth through environmental awareness. With continued support, Ngala envisions a thriving ecosystem where humans and nature coexist in harmony, making a lasting difference for generations to come.
What is your organization's mission, and how do you continue to work toward it?
Ngala Wilderness volunteer projects and Dalerwa Photography internships offer a powerful blend of conservation and storytelling in South Africa. Volunteers help with leopard monitoring, habitat restoration, and anti-poaching, while photography interns document this vital work. Their shared mission is to protect biodiversity and inspire global awareness. By combining hands-on action with visual storytelling, they empower people to protect nature and work toward a future where wildlife and communities thrive together.
What do you hope participants take away from your programs?
Participants in the Ngala Wilderness volunteer program and Dalerwa Photography and Video Internship members leave here with more than just memories. They gain deep conservation knowledge, field skills, and a renewed connection to nature. From tracking animals to capturing amazing wildlife photos, they develop confidence, purpose, and a lasting appreciation for Africa’s wild places. Most importantly, they return home inspired to protect the natural world and share their experience through impactful storytelling.
Cheetah in the wild
Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
Traveling abroad and experiencing new cultures is vital for personal growth and global understanding. South Africa, in particular, offers a rich and complex cultural landscape shaped by diverse traditions, histories, and languages. Experiencing this firsthand deepens awareness of social and environmental issues, fosters respect for different ways of life, and challenges assumptions. In South Africa, travelers often encounter strong community spirit, resilience, and powerful connections to nature—insights that inspire more mindful living and a broader worldview.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel means connecting deeply with the places you visit by going beyond sightseeing to engage with local cultures, communities, and environments. It’s about learning, giving back, and leaving a positive impact. Whether through volunteering, conservation, or cultural exchange, meaningful travel creates space for personal growth, awareness, and empathy. It transforms you as much as the journey itself, inspiring a more responsible and compassionate way of exploring the world.
