In a remarkable milestone for conservation and community empowerment, trainees from the Living Lakes Biodiversity and Climate Project (LLBCP) have officially graduated as registered field guides. This achievement, a testament to dedication and collaboration, highlights the transformative power of education and opportunity in environmental conservation.
WILDTRUST, an organization dedicated to empowering communities and conserving biodiversity, spearheaded this program in partnership with the Global Nature Fund and the Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA). Together, they provided invaluable career pathways to individuals from the KwaJobe and Tembe communities. The initiative underscores the LLBCP’s commitment to promoting eco-tourism and conservation as sustainable livelihood options.
A Comprehensive Training Journey
The journey began with the FGASA Pangolin Course, a foundational program introducing participants to the essentials of wildlife guiding. Trainees engaged in immersive field trips to game reserves and a reptile park, alongside obtaining certifications in Basic Wilderness First Aid. Building on this foundation, 10 trainees advanced to the FGASA Nature Site Guide (NQF2) skills program, complemented by hands-on lodge internships. These placements at esteemed establishments such as Bayala Safari Lodge, Bonamanzi Game Reserve, and mFulawozi Private Game Reserve, offered practical insights into guiding, lodge operations, and eco-tourism practices.
A Celebration of Achievement
The program’s culmination was marked by a heartfelt graduation ceremony in December 2024 at Sodwana Bay. Graduates were awarded multiple certifications, including:
- – FGASA Pangolin Course Certificate
– Basic Wilderness First Aid Certificate
– FGASA Nature Site Guide (NQF2) Certificate
– FGASA Savannah Biome Guide Certificate
– CATHSSETA Nature Site Guide (NQF2) Certificate
– National Department of Tourism registration as Tour Guides
Notable graduates, Khaya Zwane and Khumbulani Jobe from the KwaJobe community, exemplify the program’s impact. Having been part of WILDTRUST initiatives since 2009, both individuals have transformed their passion for nature into sustainable careers. Khaya has joined mFulawozi Private Game Reserve, while Khumbulani works part-time at Bayala Private Game Lodge and aspires to further qualifications.
A Celebration of Achievement
Reflecting on his journey, Khumbulani expressed heartfelt gratitude: “WILDTRUST employed me from 2009 to 2024 and helped me fulfill my dream to be a nature guide under the Savannah Biome Level 1 (NQF2). Now I’m working part-time at Bayala Private Game Lodge, and I believe soon they will offer me a permanent position. After a year or two, I will look ahead to achieving Level 2.”
Their success stories are already inspiring their communities, illustrating the profound impact of conservation efforts in transforming lives and protecting natural heritage.
Trainer and FGASA assessor Brian Bode praised the trainees’ growth, noting their exceptional progress in communication, presentation, and field skills. He highlighted the program’s broader implications: preparing graduates for lifelong careers while fostering an enduring appreciation for wildlife and conservation.
Building on this success, the Living Lakes Biodiversity and Climate Project aims to enhance future programs with specialized certifications, such as tracking, snake handling, and 4×4 driving, further boosting employability in the eco-tourism sector.
As Khaya, Khumbulani, and their peers embark on their careers, their journeys symbolize resilience, hope, and the transformative potential of education. WILDTRUST remains steadfast in its mission to empower communities and conserve the natural world, ensuring that the legacy of this program resonates far beyond its graduates.
