My path to the tourism industry was discovered by pure chanceβ¦
I attended Rand Afrikaans University (RAU) β now University of Johannesburg β and was all set to go into the field of Biokinetics. During my years at university, I was beckoned by a friend who needed German-speaking tour guides so, during my vacations, I enthusiastically embraced the opportunity to guide extensive tours through South Africa. These experiences highlighted the remarkable and diverse country that I lived in, and ignited my passion for travel, our beautiful country and, particularly, the wildlife.
After completing my BA HMS (Human Movement Science) in 1988, I took a determined detour, having decided that the only career I wanted to pursue was in the field of tourism. My primary motivator was to contribute in some way towards protecting our biggest asset β our wildlife β for future generations.
I have had the privilege of travelling to many different countries, which I have thoroughly enjoyed, but there is nothing that touches my heart and is as captivating for me as the sights, the sounds and the smells of the African bush . My 30-odd-year journey in tourism has allowed me to engage with so many different people from all over the world, educate them about the wonders of South Africa and led me to work with inspiring individuals and organisations, such as HERD. Pioneers in their protection and preservation efforts of elephants, it is with immense pride to be associated with HERD and have a part to play in fulfilling my original conservation aspirations.