At Ulovane Environmental Training, we believe that nature has the power to change lives, open new paths, and inspire leadership. Through the Ulovane Community Nature Guide Course, young people from across South Africa step into the wild—not just to learn guiding skills, but to discover themselves, build confidence, and carve out brighter futures.

This year’s students are already proving just how life-changing this journey can be. Here are two of their inspiring stories:

Finding Strength in Nature

My name is Vincent Thabo Mtiliwa. I’m 28 and grew up in Maryport, Northern Cape. Life wasn’t easy—my mother had five children, and my grandmother stepped in to raise me. She was my rock and taught me to appreciate life no matter how tough it got.

After losing her in 2018, things became even harder. I tried studying Business Management, but funding fell through, and I had to put my dreams on hold to support my family. For years, I worked odd jobs, always believing that one day, something would change.

That change came when a friend introduced me to the Siyazenzela program. Joining this course has been a blessing. Every day in nature feels like a step toward healing, self-discovery, and a new future. It’s not always easy—there are long nights of study—but here I feel alive, surrounded by good people and a sense of purpose.

I came for the love of nature and to renew my soul—and I know this journey will change my life forever.

Discovering My True Calling

I’m Duncan Davids, 24, from McGregor in the Western Cape. After high school, I tried everything—IT, hospitality, you name it. I graduated top of my class in IT but struggled to find work and eventually became a chef. I was good at these jobs, but deep down, they weren’t my true calling.

Then my cousin, a past Ulovane graduate, told me about the Siyazenzela program. I almost didn’t come, but something told me this was an opportunity I couldn’t miss.

Three weeks in, I know I made the right choice. Every day brings learning, laughter, and experiences I never imagined—like helping release four puffadders, meeting giraffes during a conservation operation, and shadowing a guide on Amakhala Game Reserve.

This course is challenging me, building my confidence, and reconnecting me with my love for nature. I’m growing in ways I never expected, and I’m grateful for everyone making this possible.

These stories are why Siyazenzela & Ulovane exist—to give young people a chance to discover themselves, gain valuable skills, and create a brighter, conservation-driven future.

Be Part of a Life-Changing Journey

Programs like our Community Guide Training Course are only possible because of the generosity and vision of people who believe in creating opportunities for young leaders. By sponsoring a student, you’re not just funding a course—you’re helping someone discover their potential, gain professional skills, and become a conservation ambassador for life.

Interested in changing a life and shaping the future of conservation?
Email us at schalk@ulovane.co.za to learn how you or your organisation can sponsor a Community Field Guide student in 2026.

Together, we can open doors, transform futures, and protect the wild places we all love.