A young conservationist’s journey begins with Bushwise

This blog was written by Luke Levitas, a Bushwise Professional Safari Guide student. Each student takes a turn as camp manager, and writing a blog is part of the experience.

From a young age, nature has been an integral part of my life. Growing up in South Africa, the connection to the bush felt natural, almost ingrained in us. Some of my fondest memories are of late-night fires with family and friends, surrounded by the sounds of wildlife, and the awe of stargazing on clear nights. These experiences shaped my childhood and instilled in me a strong appreciation for the environment. Over time, this appreciation evolved into a deeper understanding of the importance of conservation. I realised that protecting our natural world is a shared responsibility, and it became clear that I wanted to play a part in it. This led me to pursue a career in wildlife conservation and to consider ways to build a global network dedicated to this cause.

Growing up, I was inspired by figures like David Attenborough, Steve Irwin, and Lawrence Anthony. Attenborough's documentaries, which highlight the intricate balance of nature and the interconnection of all life, sparked a curiosity about the world around us. Steve Irwin’s enthusiasm for wildlife and his approach to educating the public showed me the power of passion in conservation. Additionally, Lawrence Anthony's work with elephants, particularly the herd he rehabilitated as described in The Elephant Whisperer, demonstrated the significant impact one person can make. These figures shaped my outlook and reinforced the idea that every contribution matters.

In adulthood, I spent nearly seven years living and travelling abroad, where I saw that many of the conservation challenges we face in South Africa, such as habitat loss, poaching, and climate change, are present around the world. I saw landscapes where forests had been replaced by farmland and witnessed how urbanisation was reshaping both natural environments and local communities. It became evident to me that wildlife conservation is not just a local issue, but a global one. If we are to make a meaningful impact, collaboration across borders is crucial.

One idea I’ve been exploring is the creation of a program similar to the Erasmus+ program, but focused on conservation and wildlife work. This program would offer students and young professionals the opportunity to gain practical experience abroad, working on projects aligned with their interests. Beyond the professional skills gained, it would also foster connections between people from diverse backgrounds, all united by a passion for wildlife conservation.

In addition to this, I believe that stronger connections between game lodges, conservation projects, breeding programs, and research institutions are essential. Currently, many of these organisations operate independently, which can limit the sharing of resources and knowledge. Strengthening these collaborations, both virtually and in-person, could help maximise the impact of their efforts.

Technology also has a significant role to play in conservation. Drones, AI-powered camera traps, and satellite monitoring systems allow for more precise tracking of animal movements, monitoring of habitats, and detection of poaching activities. A shared database, where conservation teams across different countries can upload and access findings, could revolutionise the way we approach conservation challenges.

For me, becoming a safari guide was a way to stay connected to nature while actively contributing to conservation efforts. Through the IFGA Professional Safari Guide course (6/12 months), I have had the opportunity to share my passion for the environment with people from around the world. When individuals experience the beauty of nature firsthand, they often develop a greater sense of responsibility for its protection.

The challenges facing conservation are significant – habitat loss, poaching, and climate change present real obstacles. However, collaboration, new technologies, and a shared commitment to the cause can help us make a meaningful difference.

Nature has provided me with a deep sense of purpose and countless rewarding experiences. Now, I’m focused on giving back and ensuring that future generations have the opportunity to experience the same wonders. By building stronger networks and working together, we can help preserve our natural world for the long term.

Ready to start your journey into wildlife conservation? Bushwise offers a range of wildlife courses that can help you gain the skills and knowledge needed to jumpstart your career!