What inspired you to work for Nature Travel Namibia?
My passion for birds, wildlife, and photography inspired me to join this organization. Years of working with horses sparked my interest in veterinary care. Having the opportunity to help oversee the Vets for Wildlife program feels like a dream come true. It allows me to combine my passion for wildlife, veterinary care, and conservation education—playing an active role in shaping an experience that truly makes a difference, thus making a meaningful impact while doing what I love most.
Describe a typical day at work.
A typical day in the office begins with checking emails, responding to inquiries, and engaging with potential participants interested in our student programs. Much of my time is spent researching and crafting fresh, exciting itineraries, updating our digital platforms, and ensuring all program details are accurate and inspiring. No two days are the same—especially when I'm out in the field. While on tour, the rhythm changes completely: early mornings are dedicated to tracking down key target birds for guests, followed by a midday break or packed lunch in a scenic spot, and afternoons filled with more birding, wildlife encounters, and guiding unforgettable outdoor experiences.
Birding in the desert in Namibia
What is your favorite part of your job?
My deep love for nature drives everything I do. Researching new destinations feels like a virtual adventure, and guiding brings it to life. Sharing the excitement of a guest spotting a target bird or rare mammal—often one they didn’t expect—is incredibly rewarding. It feels like experiencing the magic for the first time all over again.
What are some current projects you are working on?
I’m currently developing exciting new tours that blend adventure with purpose—introducing more active experiences like hiking and mountain biking, all centered around nature and conservation. We're also expanding our range of ethical Conservation Tours that directly support and give back to wildlife protection efforts.
What advice would you give your pre-travel self?
Start exploring the world as early as you can—even if it means combining work and travel. Every journey, no matter how big or small, will broaden your perspective, build resilience, and spark passions you didn’t know you had. Travel teaches independence, empathy, and adaptability. Don’t wait for the “right time”—see as much as you can before the demands of adult life begin to take priority. Those early experiences will shape who you are and guide the path you choose later on.
What makes Nature Travel Namibia special?
What sets Nature Travel Namibia apart is our personalized, responsive service and genuine care for each guest’s journey. Our expert consultants handle every detail with precision, while our passionate guides ensure smooth, enriching tours filled with wildlife, culture, and unforgettable moments from start to finish.
Victoria Falls on a birding safari
Why should someone choose Nature Travel Namibia over competitors?
Nature Travel Namibia offers expertly crafted, small-group tours led by passionate specialists who truly care about wildlife, conservation, and meaningful travel. With personal attention, ethical practices, and unique itineraries tailored to every interest, we deliver unforgettable, responsible travel experiences.
What makes Nature Travel Namibia easy to market to potential participants?
Nature Travel Namibia is easy to market because it offers authentic, expert-led travel experiences that resonate with today’s conscious and curious travelers. With a strong focus on wildlife, conservation, and personalized service, our tours appeal to those seeking meaningful adventures in truly unique destinations.
What is your organization's mission, and how do you continue to work toward it?
Nature Travel Namibia’s mission is to create meaningful, responsible travel experiences that celebrate wildlife, support conservation, and connect people with nature. We work toward this by designing ethical, immersive tours, partnering with conservation projects, and continuously educating both our guests and ourselves.
What do you hope participants take away from your programs?
We hope participants leave our programs with a deeper appreciation for wildlife, nature, and conservation. Beyond unforgettable sightings and experiences, we aim to inspire a lasting connection to the natural world—and a greater understanding of the importance of protecting it for future generations.
Flock to Marion, birding the southern ocean
If you could participate in one of your organization's programs, where would you go and what would you do?
If I could participate in one of our programs, I would join the Vets for Wildlife program in Namibia. It offers a unique chance to work closely with expert wildlife veterinarians, gaining hands-on experience in wildlife health and conservation while exploring Namibia’s incredible natural landscapes.
What questions do participants often ask you, and how do you typically respond?
Participants often ask about the best times to visit, what wildlife they can expect to see, and how to prepare for the trip. We respond by providing detailed, personalized advice based on their interests and experience level, ensuring they feel confident and excited. We also emphasize our focus on ethical travel and conservation.
Why is it important for people to travel abroad and experience new cultures?
Traveling abroad and experiencing new cultures broadens perspectives, fosters empathy, and challenges preconceived ideas. It encourages personal growth, builds understanding between people, and inspires greater respect for diversity and the environment—helping create a more connected and compassionate world.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
Meaningful travel means exploring the world responsibly—leaving little or no impact on the places we visit while immersing ourselves in authentic, enriching experiences. It’s about gaining deeper understanding and, whenever possible, giving back, especially by supporting conservation and helping protect the natural environments we cherish.
Birding group, Namibia, Botswana, and Zambia Safari
What issues do you see in the world of international education that don’t line up with your values and expectations for mutually beneficial & educational relationships between programs and the communities in which they are located?
In international education, I often see programs that prioritize profit over genuine community engagement, leading to one-sided benefits that don’t truly support local needs. This conflicts with my values of creating mutually respectful, ethical partnerships that empower communities and foster meaningful, sustainable learning experiences for all involved.
What qualities in program & host community relations are essential to you? (And Nature Travel Namibia?)
Strong program and host community relations should be built on mutual respect, transparency, and genuine collaboration. It’s important to us that partnerships empower local communities, honor their culture and knowledge, and ensure benefits flow both ways. This approach supports sustainable conservation efforts, wildlife protection, and the preservation of local ecology alongside meaningful education.
