What inspired you to work for Ngala Wilderness?
To give participants a glimpse of what I have experienced in the past 20 years, and to be able to continue my conservation and research efforts in South Africa and Mozambique. To offer volunteers the opportunity to be actively involved in broad-based conservation whilst being taught about Africa's spectacular wildlife as well as its ecological importance.
Describe a typical day at work.
Early morning drives or work collecting vital data, may it be physical track, animal sightings, or downloading camera traps. Over the heat of the day, all this data gets processed, ID cards are created for new individuals, and they are recorded. Late afternoons and evenings are spent around the campfire, reminiscing about events of the day and the possibilities of what tomorrow might bring.
Photography intern in action
Why do you do what you do?
The African wilderness! The excitement of the unknown and what the bush might give you the opportunity to experience. A passion for conservation is not something that is learned or developed; you are born with it. Being in the wild and seeing our achievements, even though sometimes it's not that visible, is why we do what we do!
What is your favorite part of your job?
Sharing my experiences with others and seeing them being overwhelmed by the beauty of Africa. Being able to point out the small things that mostly get looked over but are equally as important, and being a member of the big five. But most of all, knowing that every participant who has been part of our programs has been changed forever, and has a greater understanding of what conservation entails.
Tracking White Rhinoceros
How do you use your education and international background in your current role?
Having acquired numerous qualifications and having worked in some of the most remote areas in Southern Africa has enabled me to share my experiences and to further our conservation efforts. This also created the opportunity for Ngala Wilderness to achieve past goals, especially in areas that have proven extremely difficult in the past.
What are some current projects you are working on?
Leopard census in the Waterberg region of Limpopo, South Africa
Elephant, Lion, and Wild dog monitoring in South Western Mozambique
Working in conjunction with numerous state organisations, researchers, wildlife authorities in both South Africa and Mozambique, wildlife veterinarians,
Universities are in Mozambique and abroad.
What advice would you give your pre-travel self?
Always plan for the unexpected. Africa has a way of making everything difficult, so always be prepared. As the saying goes This Is Africa (TIA). Always have a plan A to Z, and just go with it; it is the unknown that makes it exciting. But always be prepared, especially when crossing borders and dealing with officials.
Why should someone choose your organization over competitors?
We are not a summer camp or a cheap way to go on safari. Our programs are based on actual research and conservation work. We also only allow a maximum of 8 participants per group on set dates once a month, which allows volunteers to get the attention and guidance required without getting lost in the crowd.
What is your organization's mission, and how do you continue to work toward it?
To create a vast protected area where humans and wildlife coexist in harmony. To collect as much data as possible to give us a better understanding of how to better protect our wildlife and their habitat. To educate the local population occupying the land bordering our reserves the importance of every species that calls our reserves home.
Photography intern in action
What do you hope participants take away from your programs?
A complete understanding of how Africa works and what effort goes into protecting our wildlife. But most of all, having developed a love for Africa, its beauty, vast cultures, its people and traditions, and most importantly our fauna and flora. For every participant to be an ambassador of African wildlife.
Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
Traveling and experiencing new cultures is important for personal growth, understanding the world, and fostering empathy and global awareness. It can broaden perspectives, improve communication skills, and enhance adaptability. Moreover, travel can break down stereotypes, promote respect for diversity, and contribute to a more inclusive and understanding society.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Travel takes us out of our comfort zones and inspires us to see, taste and try new things. It constantly challenges us, not only to adapt to and explore new surroundings, but also to engage with different people, to embrace adventures as they come and to share new and meaningful experiences with friends and loved ones.
