This blog was written by Lihle Donecia Mndawe, a Bushwise International Field Guide student. Each student takes a turn as camp manager, and writing a blog is part of the experience.
Enrolling with Bushwise academy has been a great evolving journey for me, I have developed into a passionate and knowledgeable person with wildlife. This blog reflects my growth and development before, during and after. How I got to be part of the Bushwise 6-month program was a very fortunate experience for me, through the Sabi-Sabi Foundation which sponsored four candidates to study in becoming a field guide with Bushwise and the Sabi-Sabi Ranger Academy. Out of 700 plus candidates that applied for the sponsorship I got to be part of the four candidates that made it to the final selection. After the selection, that’s when I knew my life was about to change to an exciting one – new skills and development.
Before
I have always been passionate about wildlife, as I have worked at a safari lodge as a receptionist for over 6 years. With my great customer service, patience and being a team player, I knew I would be a perfect fit for being a field guide. Before stepping into Bushwise’s gates, I knew little about animal track, signs and trails, birds and trees, yet I had the eagerness to learn the ins and outs about the wild. I had so much interest in bush walks, even though I had a limited knowledge of the ecosystem. With the lack of information and direction, it took me a little bit longer to finally be where my passion is.
During
One can acquire a skill from an academy, from a role model or a mentor. Currently as a Bushwise student I have gained so many skills. I got my driving skills with Bushwise with the help of the head trainer – I will forever be grateful for such an opportunity. I have gained a lot of skills and am still learning, with the very knowledgeable and patient mentor I got to learn a lot. Practical assessments such as track and sign, birding, botany, astronomy and sleep out I enjoyed the most, theory lessons were also exceptional, reptile was a bit of a challenge but had a happy ending. Lodge hosting was top-tier for me as I have experience in hosting from my previous workplace; it reminded me of all the good times shared with customers creating unforgettable experiences.
At the beginning of the course I had less confidence in myself, especially being 1.5 metres in height. I had a few challenges that did not favour my height, like reaching the pedals [in the game viewer], getting on the tracker seat, and changing tyres, but it all comes with practice.
Future
Now all that is left is the fun stuff – rifle handling and trails . My goal is to achieve the remaining assessments and I am looking forward to getting placed at the lodge. That is when reality will hit, putting all the practical and theoretical skills into practice and engaging with the ecosystem.
There is still a long road ahead – more studying, research, learning new techniques and exploring to do. Everyday is a learning experience. Graduating will be the biggest part of my growth and development.
The Bushwise program is definitely a life changing opportunity, I would recommend it to anyone who has the passion to become a field guide because of their well-trained instructors, proper study material and good course planning. My mission is to grow in the industry and inspire other young females who are passionate to become field guides. Exploring outside the country and experiencing different ecosystems is definitely a dream for me.
Ready to begin your own wildlife journey? Apply for a Bushwise course and start your adventure.
