Born in South Africa, I grew up on a farm in Limpopo Province, close to the Kruger National Park. My love for the South African bush began at a young age. After high school, I moved to Johannesburg to pursue a career in the city. Working and living in the concrete jungle, I always felt like something was missing in my life. Finally, after 21 years, I decided to give up city life for the bush. I enrolled in an Apprentice Field Guide program at Limpopo Field Guiding Academy (LFGA), a FGASA endorsed institution in the Dinokeng North Game Reserve. I remember showing up only to discover that I was the oldest female amongst the young students. “What did I get myself into?” I wondered.
It is a male-dominated industry, and quitting is not in my blood. So, I loaded my bags onto the Land Rover and we drove into the reserve. In camp at night, I could hear buffalo and hippo grazing around my tent, which was incredible. I can remember in the mornings, getting ready for the morning game drive, my tent was frozen on the inside. With 2 hours sitting in peak traffic being the alternative, I did not mind the freezing mornings. The knowledge I have gained and the amazing people that I have met along the way are priceless. Unfortunately, the Covid Pandemic significantly impacted the tourism industry in 2020, and employment was limited.
Traveling became increasingly difficult due to lockdown protocols, which presented me with the opportunity to further my studies and qualify as an Apprentice Trails Guide with LFGA. This course undoubtedly builds character, from Advanced Rifle Handling (ARH) to shooting under immense pressure with simulated lion charges, walking for 7 hours per day in the scorching sun, and tracking dangerous game, all whilst your rifle ends up weighing a ton as your arms do not feel like yours anymore. “Don’t be a sissy, Zaan, if the guys can do it, you can do it better,” I continued to tell myself as we pushed on through the Red Spike-thorns, tracking rhino, buffalo, lion and more. This is where I learned that you DO NOT wear shorts when tracking regardless of the weather.
In 2021, Covid Restrictions were easing, and tourists started trickling in, I was fortunate to have been offered a position as a guide in the Waterberg Region’s Welgevonden Game Reserve. This opportunity provided me with enough experience to continue my studies while working, and on my off days, I prepared for the NQF4 Level 2 theory examination, which I passed in early 2022. Doing mentorships with LFGA to earn hours towards my Lead Trails Guide Qualification and the NQF4 level 2 practical assessment is what currently keeps me busy during leave periods.
I have come to realize that learning is a blessing, and one is never too old to learn. Learning is non-stop for me. You never know what sighting or encounter the bush will present around the next corner. I am so fortunate to be in a position where I can witness the grandeur of the South African bush with the spectacular sunrises and sunsets. The sightings are breathtakingly beautiful. I love what I do, which is something that not many people can say in this world. I find myself looking up at the sky and wondering, what I did to deserve this privilege.
For course bookings contact Linky on:
+27(0)72 625 4709
+27(0)14 007 0621