Introducing you to Munya, who has been doing programming for over 15 years now. He is also a self-taught bass guitarist, although sadly for his friends, he hasn’t been playing for as long as he’s been programming! In his spare time, he likes to sleep, knit, run, occasionally hike and do gardening.
The
Bushwise family
Meet the team
Bushwise Field Guides was founded by a passionate conservationist who, after a fruitful career in conservation, realised there was a need for professional, qualified field guides to help ethically sustain our natural environment.
This passion gave birth to Bushwise in 2006. Over the years we have evolved according to industry needs, and added to our collection of experienced trainers.
The Bushwise team is made up of highly qualified, professional, and ethical field guides that have over 100 years of combined guiding experience.
In their midst are expert field guides, professional trails guides, mentors, bird specialists and even an entomologist..
Co-founder
Bushwise
Bushwise
Sophie
I came to South Africa from the UK in 1996, where I began my career as a safari guide and predator researcher. Before starting Bushwise in 2006, I was a Director of Africa and ran conservation and community programs around the continent. I enjoyed 16 rewarding years as Director, with amazing colleagues who make a real difference. In 2022 I stepped down as Director to spend more time with my family and pursue a career as an artist. I will always have a special interest in Bushwise and look forward to seeing how the organisation grows over the years!
CEO
Head Office
Eugene
I was born and bred in Durban but have called various parts of South Africa home. I’ve always had a passion for wildlife. I studied operations management and over the past 15 years I’ve been in roles that range from restaurant owner, project and operations management as well as sales manager for various leading tourism and safari organisations. I joined Bushwise in 2021 with a mission to ensure we train the next generation of ethical ambassadors of the natural world by providing unmatched skills and experience.
CMO and Head of Strategy
Head Office
Alice
I’ve spent nearly 15 years working at the intersection of African wildlife conservation and education, two areas I care about deeply. Over the last 12 years with Bushwise, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside incredible people, turning big ideas into action and doing work that makes a positive impact for both people and nature.
Operations Director
Head Office
Ian
From overland tour leader to trails guide in Africa’s most prestigious reserves, my career is defined by an intimate connection to the bush. With years of experience guiding elite walking trails and honing my eye as a wildlife photographer, I’ve transitioned from the front lines to Operations Manager. I now blend that deep field expertise with strategic oversight, ensuring our wilderness experiences are world-class, authentic, and rooted in the conservation of Southern Africa’s landscapes.
Business Development & Marketing Manager for Bushwise Academy
Head Office
Sarah
My connection to the natural world began growing up in KwaZulu-Natal, where wildlife and wild spaces were always close to home. With a background in marketing and business management, I work closely with our leadership team to grow Bushwise Academy’s reach, build partnerships with funding organisations, and develop ways to measure the difference our sponsored programmes make. What I love most about this work is helping young people access meaningful opportunities and build fulfilling careers in the wildlife industry.
Digital Marketing Coordinator
Head Office
Remi
I’ve been working for Bushwise for almost a year now. Growing up in Botswana, I’ve always had a deep appreciation for the bushveld and for nature and conservation in general, so being part of a company that is so closely connected to that world feels incredibly meaningful to me.
As the Digital Marketing Coordinator, I’m mainly involved in the day-to-day operations of the marketing team, while also working across different departments on a wide variety of projects. I’m definitely quite Type A by nature, so I genuinely enjoy organisation, structure and finding ways to make things run more efficiently!
Senior Developer
Head Office
Munya
Design Director
Head Office
Andre VD
Nature has always been where I feel most at home, whether I’m in the bush, jungle, beach, travelling or exploring somewhere new. I’ve spent more than 20 years working in design and creative roles, and I love using that experience to support work with a real connection to wildlife and conservation. For me, Bushwise brings together two things I care about deeply: nature and meaningful creative work.
Trainer
Karongwe Campus, Trainer
Kelly
My journey into conservation began with a decision to completely change direction and pursue a long-standing passion for wildlife and the natural world. In 2022, I joined Bushwise to complete my Field Guide course, followed by further training as an Apprentice Trails Guide in the Lowveld Trails. Since then, I have built my career in the conservation and wildlife volunteering sector, working my way through field-based and programme management roles before returning to Bushwise, where I now manage the programme at Karongwe Private Game Reserve.
Although my role involves overseeing the day-to-day running of the programme, I am happiest out in the field. I have a particular love for botany and enjoy sharing my knowledge and enthusiasm for the bush with participants, while helping them develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of the natural world. For me, conservation is far more than a career — it’s where I found the work I genuinely love doing.
Trainer
Selati Campus, Trainer
Chris
My passion for the Bushveld was build on my time growing up on our family ranch. I started my guiding career in 1999, in the Lowveld of South Africa. 26 years later, with a career that took me all over Southern Africa, with some of the top safari companies out there, I now focus my efforts to train the next generation of nature guides with Bushwise. My main focus is on teaching students the ins & outs of conducting walking safaris in dangerous game areas, at our Selati Campus, as well as assistance with the 60-Day Guiding Courses. I am privileged to be part of the Bushwise Team, where I’m empowered to share my knowledge and skills acquired over 2 and a half decades, giving back to an industry that shaped me.
Housekeeping
Mahlahla Campus, Support
Membry
I’ve been working at Bushwise since March 2025 and have really enjoyed becoming part of the team. I’ve always loved nature, so working in an environment that is so closely connected to the bush is something that is very special to me. I enjoy my role and being part of the day-to-day life at Bushwise, and I’m very happy to be doing work that I genuinely love.
Chef
Mahlahla Campus, Support
Rendi
I started my journey at Bushwise as a housekeeper and, since January 2025, I’ve been working in the kitchen alongside my colleague, Rose. I really enjoy working with new people and being part of the team, especially getting to interact with the Bushwise students. I love the kitchen environment and enjoy being able to contribute to making their time at Bushwise feel welcoming and enjoyable.
Marketing Manager
Head Office
Erin
Growing up in Pretoria, I always dreamed of living in nature and working with wildlife. I turned that dream into a reality in 2018 and spent the next six years working as a field guide while also taking on roles in lodge management, digital marketing and tour planning. Today, I continue to connect with the bush while blending my creative and marketing skills in my work at Bushwise.
Student Experiences Manager
Head Office
Claudia
Growing up, I was fortunate enough to experience the eastern coast of South Africa through to the west coast. Only in 2017 was I introduced to the bush. It has taken a hold of my soul and I am so privileged to be able to assist the next generation of field guides in becoming the best they can be!
Enrollment Manager
Head Office
Channél
Growing up in Thabazimbi, I spent my weekends exploring nature – rivers, waterfalls, and mountains – guided by my father’s influence, which sparked my deep love for the bush. I am an enthusiastic, self-motivated, and reliable individual with a background in sales, customer service, and the beauty industry, through which I’ve developed strong people skills. I enjoy helping others grow and take great satisfaction in combining my passion for people with my love for nature.
Student Placements
Head Office
Kim
My career in hospitality began at 18, working across golf resorts, beach resorts, boutique lodges, and luxury game lodges. By 30, I had become a General Manager at a luxury bush lodge, driven by a passion for people, dedication, and a strong work ethic.
With a long-standing love for travel, tourism, and conservation, I transitioned into sales, where I could combine my hospitality experience with supporting others. For over 10 years at Bushwise, I’ve guided aspiring field guides as they take their first steps into the industry, helping them build meaningful and fulfilling careers while sharing my passion for the bush and conservation.
Accreditation & Admin Manager
Head Office
Sharin
My passion for the bush began at an early age, growing up on a farm and spending many school holidays exploring the Kruger National Park. After several years in the corporate world, I decided to follow that passion, building a career in the wildlife and hospitality industry that has included working as a leopard researcher, managing 5-star lodges across South Africa, and experiencing the challenges and adventures of overlanding.
Along the way, I realised that my greatest passion lies in people and conservation. I love contributing to the development of those wanting to build a career in the bush, helping them gain the knowledge, skills and confidence to succeed. I currently manage the Accreditation and Administration Department at Bushwise, where I combine my experience in operations, administration and training with my passion for conservation and the people who make this industry so special.
Student & Online Support
Head Office
Rohandi
I grew up in Cape Town, where I wanted to become a marine biologist growing up. I am now based in a beautiful town called Hoedspruit where my love for the African bushveld grows every day. After 10 years in the real estate industry, I finally decided to follow my passion and joined the amazing team at Bushwise. I am a mother of three beautiful children, and I love teaching them about nature.
Head Talent Specialist
Head Office
Ryan
I’m an experienced Talent Acquisition leader with over a decade of building and scaling recruitment functions across diverse industries. I currently lead the launch and growth of Bushwise People, a specialist talent solutions business connecting top talent with opportunities in conservation, tourism, and hospitality. I have a strong track record in shaping talent acquisition strategy, leading high-performing teams, and implementing efficient, scalable processes that support long-term business growth.
Recruitment Consultant
Head Office
Elouise
Conservation has been in my blood since day one. After studying Nature Conservation at TUT, My journey took me from the dusty tracks of the Hoedspruit and Pilanesberg to the operations of luxury lodges, with a unique five-year chapter in dentistry in between. This diverse path taught me that whether you’re caring for a rhino calf or a dental patient, the core values remain the same: dedication, empathy, and resilience. Love living in Hoedspruit with my husband and three boys and now part of the Bushwise family, helping students and candidates turn their own wild dreams into reality.
Finance
Head Office
Danielle
Born and raised in the city, my heart has always belonged to nature. I spent 10 years living in the bush, embracing the simplicity and serenity of life surrounded by the sounds of the wild. My career spans corporate roles and the citrus industry, with a strong foundation in finance, particularly in the hospitality sector. Now, I reside in Hoedspruit with my family, where my love for nature continues to thrive.
Finance & Admin Assistant
Head Office
Amoné
I am originally from Hoedspruit, where I grew up surrounded by the bush and wildlife, developing a genuine appreciation for nature and the environment. I am very excited to be in my first job with Bushwise, where I am gaining valuable hands-on experience and skills and meeting new people! In addition, I am currently pursuing a Bachelor’s in Business of Commerce qualification to build a strong academic foundation and work towards obtaining my degree.
Head Trainer
Babanango Campus
Babanango Campus, Trainer
Nic
Originally from Rustenburg in the North West, I developed a love for nature from a young age. I began my guiding journey at Selati Game Reserve in 2009, which laid the foundation for my career in guiding.
Since then, I’ve had the privilege of working at some incredible lodges across South Africa and Mozambique, including Phinda and Kwandwe Private Game Reserves, Fire Island and Eco Retreats, and Marataba.
Today, I’m a trainer on the Bushwise 60-day course, where I enjoy being part of a passionate team and sharing my experience with the next generation of guides.
Head Trainer
Mahlahla Campus
Mahlahla Campus, Trainer
Darryn
My passion for the bush came from my parents, spending many holidays all over South Africa in various game reserves or on birding trips. I completed my training course in 2012 and began my career in the Waterberg region of South Africa. I have since gone on to work in several reserves around South Africa including Entabeni, Madikwe, Klaserie and Greater Kruger National Park. My qualifications include Professional Field Guide, Professional Trails Guide and SKS Birding. I’m currently working towards mentor status.
Head Trainer
SAWC Campus
SAWC Campus, Trainer
Fred
Originally from the Free State, I hold a degree in Nature Conservation and I’m working towards getting my Professional Field Guide qualification. I did a practical year with the Veterinary Services of SANParks before moving into guiding in 2015. I’ve worked at various lodges around Kruger and Northern KZN province. During my time at the lodges I got involved with training and mentoring new guides; I realised this is where my passion lies! I joined Bushwise in February 2023.
Head Trainer
Sabi Sabi Campus, Trainer
Jason
Growing up on a small farm near a tiny town sparked my love for nature. This passion kept me away from big cities, drawing me to wildlife reserves where I immersed myself in diverse ecosystems and learned about different species. My career began in 2013 in the Eastern Cape, quickly evolving from guiding to managing teams. I’ve worked across various game reserves in South Africa, exploring its rich biomes. Today, I strive to share my passion with others, shaping the future guides of the industry.
Trainer
Selati Campus, Trainer
Trevor
I grew up in Johannesburg and, after several years in the corporate world, decided to change direction and follow a different path. In 1993, I enrolled as a field guide student, a decision that completely changed my life. The bush bug bit, and I traded city life for the freedom of the African wilderness. Since then, I have worked across many areas of the guiding and training industry, including as a Professional Safari Guide, Professional Trails Guide, CATHSSETA Facilitator, Range Officer, ARH Assessor and Instructor.
While I have a deep passion for the bush and guiding, people have always been at the heart of what I do. Helping aspiring guides discover their potential, overcome challenges and build meaningful careers in the industry is the most rewarding part of my work. If I can make a difference in the lives of even a few aspiring guides, help them find their feet in the industry and watch them continue to grow in their careers, there is no price tag that can be placed on that reward. For me, guiding and training is about sharing knowledge, creating opportunities and helping the next generation of guides find their place in the bush.
Head Trainer
Selati Campus
Pieter
Since childhood I have had a big love and passion for nature. In 2008, I officially started in the industry and guided for 6 years on various properties in the Eastern Cape and in the Lowveld. In, 2014 I moved over into training hoping to inspire more guides to follow the ethical ways that was cemented into me during my own training as a young guide. For the past 12+ years I’ve been involved in a variety of guide training, specialising in trails and bird guiding together with spending a couple of years as a safari manager allowing me the privilege to cover most of our beautiful country and natural environment working with a great diversity of reserves, guides and students.
Head Trainer
Mahlahla Campus
Andre
Growing up on my father’s bushveld farm in the Magaliesberg sparked my love for the bush and wildlife. From a young age, I built hiking trails and guided visitors to the mountain top, sharing my knowledge of endangered Cape vultures and discovering a passion for wildlife photography. My guiding career began in 1992 in Manyeleti Game Reserve and expanded across South Africa, including Phinda, Tswalu, and private reserves. Along the way, I founded a wildlife consulting business, developed wilderness areas, and relocated wildlife across Africa. Today, I continue to combine guiding, photography, and conservation, sharing my knowledge to inspire others to protect and appreciate Africa’s natural heritage.
Trainer
Mahlahla Campus, Trainer
Janco
I grew up on a sheep, cattle, and game farm in the Northern Cape, attending an agricultural school before studying game ranch management at Saasveld. Being surrounded by nature all my life has shaped my passion for the outdoors. I’ve worked on game farms guiding guests, leading bush walks, and managing hunting farms, as well as on cattle and sheep farms across the Northern Cape, Eastern Cape, Northwest, and Western Cape. I’ve also taken guests into Namibia and worked on an irrigation farm in the United States.
Spending so much time outside has given me a deep appreciation for nature, and it’s a privilege to make a career from what I love. Since November 2025, I’ve been sharing that passion and knowledge with students, helping them pursue their own path in the bush and conservation.
Trainer
SAWC Campus, Trainer
Andrew
Growing up in Newcastle’s foothills, my dad ignited my love for animals. We were the go-to for snake removals in our neighbourhood. After earning my guiding qualifications, I worked across various lodges in the hospitality industry, driven by my passion for wildlife, which even led to a YouTube channel. As a head guide and concession manager, I craved something more. Now, as a guide trainer with Bushwise, I’m dedicated to sharing my passion and years of experience with others.
Trainer
Mahlahla Campus, Trainer
Mary
With a background in Nature Conservation from TUT and CATHSSETA NQF 2, my journey has been shaped by a passion for the natural world and a curiosity to better understand it. I’ve gained experience across environmental education, administration, and field guiding, working closely with diverse ecosystems and wildlife. Through these experiences, I’ve developed a strong appreciation for conservation and a drive to share that knowledge, encouraging others to connect with and protect the environment.
Trainer
Mahlahla Campus, Trainer
Wessel
Born and raised along the foothills of the Drakensberg mountains in the Kwa-Zulu Natal Midlands, my passion for nature and wildlife was cultivated by parents who took every moment they could to immerse my brothers and me in the great outdoors – from bush to beach and everything in between. Graduating in 2014 as a Field Guide, I spent the better part of a decade guiding in Zululand and the greater Kruger area. Now, based in the Lowveld, I’m excited to share my expertise and inspire others to explore and connect with the natural world around us.
Online Course Trainer & Camp Co-ordinator
Sabi Sabi Campus, Trainer
Simone
From a young age, my deep love for wildlife guided me toward a career as a nature guide. Starting in the hospitality industry at 19, I found joy in sharing my knowledge and passion with guests from around the world. Now, my goal is to give back to the industry by mentoring and empowering the next generation of guides. I aim to inspire them to be ethical stewards of our natural world, equipped with the skills to make a meaningful impact.
Head Chef
Selati Campus
Selati Campus, Support
Esther
Hi, I’m Esther Chabangu from Enable Village. I’m always eager to learn new things and take on new challenges. I work as a housekeeper at Bushwise Field Guide, and I absolutely love it! I’m a university graduate, and working with my team in such a dynamic environment is something I really enjoy. Being surrounded by nature every day has sparked a deep interest in wildlife for me. I feel lucky to be part of Bushwise Field Guide, where I get to learn more about the natural world and its amazing creatures.
Chef
Babanango Campus
Babanango Campus, Support
Vumile
My name is Vumile Kubheka, and I have been working as a chef since July 2025. With two years of experience in cooking and serving, and a Diploma in Management Assistance, I take pride in transforming simple ingredients into memorable meals that delight guests. Working in the bush has strengthened my connection to nature and reinforced my commitment to preserving it.
Housekeeping
Selati Campus, Support
Ephy
Growing up in Sekororo, Tzaneen, I always dreamed of living in nature and working close to wildlife. I turned that dream into a reality when I joined Bushwise. Today I am part of the family at Selati Camp where I work in housekeeping, laundry and cooking, keeping our camp clean, warm and welcoming for students and staff. I also assist students and I am learning game drive skills and bush knowledge every day. I enjoy the nature life and I am proud to live and work in the wild.
Chef
Mahlahla Campus
Mahlahla Campus, Support
Rose
Cooking is a passion of mine and I love spending time in the kitchen and experimenting with the food I make. I started as camp chef with Bushwise in 2007. Other than a period from 2012-2015, when I was a freelance chef at various lodges, I have worked for Bushwise. I’ve been the chef at the Mahlahla campus since 2015. One of the most rewarding parts of my job is working and interacting with the students. There is always something new to see and learn on campus! My sister Iris, my best friend, also works for Bushwise.
Chef
Sabi Sabi Campus
Sabi Sabi Campus, Support
Iris
My career journey began with Bushwise in 2011 as a camp chef. I worked here until 2016 when I briefly worked at the luxury Rukiya Lodge. I decided to return to Bushwise, where I took up the role of housekeeper. In 2024, I was promoted to chef at the new Sabi Sabi Campus. I love working at Bushwise for many reasons, but the one that sticks out the most is the students. Whether they are from overseas or local South Africans, there is always a lot to learn from them. Plus I’ve made some really great friends!
Housekeeping
Mahlahla Campus
Mahlahla Campus, Support
Pulane
I’ve been working as a housekeeper at the Bushwise Mahlahla campus since 2011. I love living and working in the bush, it’s my favourite place. I really enjoy learning about nature and have endless opportunities to do that here. I’ve learned so much about the plants, trees, birds and animals we see around camp. The students have helped me learn some of these things and I always enjoyed speaking with the students and meeting new people.
Housekeeping
Sabi Sabi Campus
Sabi Sabi Campus, Support
Bellah
I started working at the Bushwise Sabi Sabi campus in 2024. I like animals and meeting new people. The campus is beautiful and we all get along well here. I enjoy getting chances to learn with the students about nature in camp or if we go on a game drive, and I enjoy my job very much. We here at the Sabi Sabi campus are just one big family!
Groundsman
Mahlahla Campus
Mahlahla Campus, Support
Philip
The Bushwise Mahlahla campus has been my home and place of work since 2018. I’m responsible for all the groundskeeping and maintenance of the camp. I enjoy making sure that everything looks good and is in running order for the rest of the staff and students. Before coming to Bushwise, I worked in anti poaching, which is where my love of nature began. I find it peaceful and relaxing in nature. I have a great time working with the students, I enjoy chatting with them and getting to know a little more about them.
Trainer
IFGA Safari Guide Short Course
Pioneer
My passion for nature comes from my childhood growing up in the remote Nkayi region of Zimbabwe. I would tend the family’s cattle, collect firewood and wild fruits, and fetch water from rivers and dams. I did my training course in 2007 in South Africa and have since worked as a field guide, tour operator and field guide trainer. My qualifications include Professional Trails Guide, Trail Guide Mentor, SKS Birding, Specialist Track and Sign, Tracker 3. My next goal is the Professional Trailing and Cyber Tracker Assessor qualification.
