Describe a typical day at work.
As the Intern manager I spend most of my days at the office. Admin, e-mails, and financials are an important part to keep the organisation on the go. Occasionally I get to go out on the research boat and assist with a bit, data collection, or get to have a snorkel with some beautiful animals.
A leatherback turtle swimming past peacefully on an ocean day
Why do you do what you do?
It's a privilege to be able to live in Sodwana Bay, I consider myself very blessed to be able to spend time in the Ocean and bush. It's such an inspiration to me to see new interns experience what I sometimes would take for granted and that's what drives me to do what I do.
Working on the Sharklife's research boat
What are some current projects you are working on?
At the moment we have a research permit in collaboration with KZN Ezemvelo to collect data on the pregnant ragged tooth sharks that are gestating in Sodwana Bay.
What advice would you tell your pre-travel self?
The world is your oyster - never be too scared to take the first step or leap. There are going to be some bad times but the good will always out weight the bad.
What makes Sharklife Conservation Group special?
Sharklife conservation group is situated in Sodwana Bay (Sodwana - meaning little one on its own) which is a very special place. It's surrounded by some of the most beautiful tropical bush and has the tallest vegetated dunes in the world. Sodwana's diving reefs are among the top ten in the world and to boot we have a beautiful warm clean ocean on most days.
What is your organization's mission and how do you continue to work toward it?
Sharklife was established in 2005 to address the alarming exploitation of both shark populations and ocean fisheries in South African waters. We actively engage the urgent need for research and protection of many marine species. We have three main aims. First, to develop a compassionate desire to conserve sharks by replacing the "Jaws" syndrome with positive understanding and respect. Second, reduce anthropogenic threats to over exploited marine species by increasing awareness and encouraging sustainable seafood choices. And lastly, evolve shark populations into sustainable living resources by promoting educational ocean experiences for all.
Sodwana Bay's beautiful lighthouse beach section where Sharklife launches its research boat from
What do you hope participants take away from your programs?
A meaningful educational experience. An adventure that one could never forget and tell family and friends about till they are old. Awareness and love of the ocean and sharks as well as for the South Africa bush. My hope is that Sharklife's participants become earth warriors.
How do you help support participants?
Our participants are with us for more than eight hours a day, we have an intern camp on the same property as Sharklife's shark museum so the participants are able to call on us at any stage of the day. At night they have a researcher staying with them.
What questions do participants often ask you, and how do you typically respond?
Are you scared of Sharks? No I am not scared I am respectful and always keep in mind that I am in their territory not that they are in mine. Its also important to remember that these are wild animals and if you do stupid things you should expect a stupid outcome.
Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
Seeing the world is more educational than any degree. Every destination has something unique to teach visitors and immersing themselves in a completely different world is the best learning experience.
A ghost crab on a early morning beach walk
What advice do you have for individuals thinking about going abroad?
Do your homework, read up on a place before you visit and try and understand some of the local culture so you can make new friends quickly and easily - these kinds of things are also a good conversation starter. Be prepared to have some ups and downs and when you are down have a few contingency plans in place to better help you out. Keep in touch with at least one family member or friend and let them know where you are and that you are safe every now and then.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Overcoming your fears - taking the first step. Being able to say thank you and hello in a new language even if you get it wrong sometimes and can laugh at yourself. Taking in the experience the moment. Seeing the world for how beautiful it really is and appreciating all things, big and small.