For many aspiring guides from local communities, however, those moments can be difficult to come by. Many are self-studying towards their qualifications, balancing revision with work and family commitments. They learn about elephants, birds and predators from books and online resources, but have few opportunities to spend time in the bush alongside experienced mentors who can help bridge the gap between theory and practice.
In June this year, that changed.
Thanks to our partnership with the Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA), Koru Camp was delighted to welcome 2025 Safari Guide of the Year, Jason Gipson, for our very first Guide Mentorship Camp. As part of his role following the competition, Jason generously volunteered his time to mentor aspiring guides and environmental educators over three days in the Greater Kruger.
Representing Ditoro Outreach, Global Conservation Corps, and Daktari Bush School, each participant arrived with different goals. Some were preparing for practical FGASA assessments after recently completing demanding theory examinations. Others were already working as environmental educators and wanted to feel more confident leading game drives, interpreting wildlife behaviour, and answering the many questions that their curious young learners ask.
So, over three days and two nights, the bush became our classroom. Tracks in the riverbed sparked conversations about animal movement and behaviour. Birding – an unfamiliar world for many participants – quickly became a favourite, with the group identifying more than 50 species by the end of the camp. Participants learnt to slow down, use all five senses, and discover that some of the best guiding moments come from the smallest details.
From understanding the ethics and responsibility guides carry towards both humans and nature, to dissecting animal behaviour in real time with elephants, and uncovering the fascinating world of termites – each new lesson touched upon something new. By the end, our aspiring guides realised that their role is far more about keen observation, clear judgement, and facilitating curiosity and connection than simply sharing knowledge of the bush.
Perhaps the greatest transformation, however, was confidence. On the first morning, many participants were hesitant to answer questions, often looking to one another before speaking. By the final day, they were independently interpreting wildlife encounters, explaining behaviour rather than reciting facts, and trusting their own observations.
Just as importantly, they left with new ideas to take back to their own organisations. Environmental educators from Daktari discovered practical ways to make children’s game drives more engaging through tracking games, birding and sensory activities. Participants from Global Conservation Corps strengthened the skills they need to prepare for their NQF2 practical assessments, while aspiring guides from Ditoro Outreach gained invaluable field experience ahead of their own guiding journeys.
As Jason himself reflected:
“Knowledge is power, but the key is how to impart that knowledge correctly. Silence and simplicity can often be the best recipe. In a world full of instant gratification, slowing down and living experiences is what matters. Guide with your heart, not your brain.”
This camp was a wonderful example of what can be achieved through collaboration. A heartfelt thank you to Jason for so generously sharing his time and experience, and, most importantly, to Connected Planet Foundation, whose sponsorship gave these aspiring guides and educators an opportunity that many would not otherwise have had. Without their commitment to investing in people, this much-needed experience would not have happened.
As for the future… it doesn’t end here! Following the success of our first mentorship camp, plans are already in place for a second programme in October. This time, we’re excited to have signed up twice as many aspiring guides for the opportunity to learn, grow and build confidence in the place where it matters most – in the bush itself.
Words and images by Emily Whiting
