In South Africa, Women’s Month is a time to celebrate the strength and resilience of women and their vital role in shaping our nation. This year, with a focus on “Building Resilient Economies for All,” we at Ulovane are particularly inspired by two young women, Elizmar Williams and Usisipho Soyeye, who are embarking on a journey to contribute to the conservation and tourism industry. Their stories, shared in their own words, are a powerful testament to the courage and determination needed to forge new paths and create a more inclusive future for the industry.

Elizmar’s Journey of Self-Discovery in Nature

Elizmar’s story is one of profound personal growth intertwined with her burgeoning love for the natural world. Growing up in a close-knit community, she initially described herself as shy and self-conscious. After completing her schooling, Elizmar embarked on a journey of self-discovery, exploring different avenues before finding her calling.

Her introduction to the Ulovane training through the Wilderness Foundation Africa marked a significant turning point. Initially unsure of what to expect, Elizmar embraced the challenges and new experiences with remarkable spirit. From witnessing a giraffe capture to her first night sleeping in a tent during a bush camp, each moment contributed to her transformation.

“As the weeks went by, I could see how being in the natural environment changed me as a person,” Elizmar reflects. “From being this shy person, never talking when not talked to, I became a person with more confidence and self-respect.”

A particular highlight for Elizmar was encountering the iconic Secretary Bird, a testament to the wonders of the African bush that has captured her imagination. Today, she stands with newfound clarity and enthusiasm, confidently stating, “Looking forward, I can with full confidence say that being a nature guide is what I want to be.” Her heartfelt gratitude to mentors Mr. Schalk and Mr. Hein underscores the supportive environment fostered at Ulovane.

Usisipho’s Steadfast Pursuit of Conservation

Usisipho’s journey showcases a remarkable dedication to conservation, fueled by a desire to contribute meaningfully to the industry. Having already completed a Tourism qualification and an Anti-poaching course where she excelled, Usisipho’s commitment is evident.

Her involvement with the Wilderness Foundation Africa led her to the Cheetah Champion program, and now, she is enthusiastically enrolling in the FGASA Course, supported by the Global Humane Conservation Fund of Africa. This consistent pursuit of knowledge and skills demonstrates her unwavering focus on her goals.

Usisipho’s experience has already taught her valuable lessons about teamwork, respect, and appreciation – qualities that are crucial for success in the guiding profession. Her words, “What I’ve learnt during this course is that working with others as a team, showing respect and also showing care and appreciation will take you somewhere in this industry,” highlight her understanding of the collaborative nature of the work.

Welcoming the Next Generation of Female Guides

Elizmar and Usisipho’s stories are powerful reminders of the diverse paths that lead individuals to a passion for wildlife and conservation. Their courage to step outside their comfort zones and embrace new challenges is truly inspiring. At Ulovane, we are honoured to play a part in their journey, providing them with the skills and knowledge they need to become confident and knowledgeable guides.

We believe that a diverse guiding fraternity enriches the experience for everyone, and we are particularly excited to see more young women like Elizmar and Usisipho stepping into this vital role. Their enthusiasm, fresh perspectives, and dedication are invaluable to the future of conservation and wildlife tourism in the Eastern Cape and beyond. We look forward to witnessing their growth and success as they embark on this exciting chapter with Ulovane.

The inspiring journeys of these ladies are made possible by the unwavering support of our community. Your contributions directly empower young women like them to pursue their passion for conservation, transforming not only their lives but also the future of our industry. By partnering with Ulovane, you invest in talent, foster diversity, and help build a more resilient and inclusive conservation economy.

Join us in making a lasting impact. Your sponsorship can provide a young woman with a full scholarship, essential training materials, or a mentorship opportunity that will shape her career. Together, we can nurture the next generation of female leaders who will protect our natural heritage.

To learn more about our sponsorship opportunities and how you can support our mission, please contact us at schalk@ulovane.co.za.

“One individual cannot possibly make a difference, alone. It is individual efforts, collectively, that makes a noticeable difference—all the difference in the world!” – Dr. Jane Goodall