I was born and raised in a little Cape Malay community Cape Town’s Bo-Kaap, a colourful and vibrant little town with beautiful views of Table Mountain.
Tourism was not my first choice of career, but an opportunity came, and I took it and have never looked back. My enthusiasm for travel grew; the people and places just became so infectious. My very first safari was at Shamwari Private Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape. Driving in the dark looking for nocturnal animals was the highlight for me! Seeing my first lion was simply exhilarating.
I had only heard stories of other people’s safari experiences and watching National Geographic as a child. But seeing a lion up this close took my breath away. A safari is the most personal and profound experience anyone can indulge in.
The most rewarding parts of my job are the experiences, whether it is walking in the city admiring historical buildings, embracing local arts, or enjoying breath-taking scenery and all the natural splendours we have at our fingertips. Not forgetting sipping on a lovely cup of coffee!
What are you passionate about in tourism?
I am passionate about my career and I thoroughly enjoy working in this demanding, interesting and competitive industry. Over the years I have learnt to be flexible, proactive and have become an ongoing learner, focusing on total quality management. My positive outlook on life has enabled me to adapt in any situation and has encouraged me to be optimistic with everything I do.
This industry is so vast with many different skills and opportunities. I absolutely love what I do, and what excites me more are the destination choices. I love creating new and epic holidays, and it’s very rare for any travel itinerary to look the same. It’s about creating new products and personalising holidays for our guests so that they can have the best experience in their dream location.
What is your favourite travel experience?
I honestly don’t have a favourite destination, but I must admit spending 14 days in East Africa was truly phenomenal. Traveling has changed my perspective of life. I have been to most provinces within South Africa and was invited by one of my clients to Seville in Spain… how lucky am I? Or like the saying goes, ‘I count my blessings’. I know many more adventures are yet to come!
What makes you happy?
A deep-set love for the outdoors and making my moments count in all aspects of life. Nothing makes me happier than taking in sunrises and sunsets. You can often find me running, hiking and doing yoga.
My way of life is simple, and I am happy when I can make others happy.
What is something you never go without on safari?
Sunblock, sunglasses, and lots of personality!
What is the most thrilling sighting you have experienced on safari?
There are many reasons to go on safari, but the main reason is to see animals in their natural habitat, untamed, free and wild. On a particular game drive, our guide gave us a heads up, that there was some action taking place on the other side of the reserve, but we had to hold on tight! Before we knew it, we had arrived on the hunting ground. Out of the corner of my eye I saw a lioness moving into action. Whew!
As we settled near a watering hole, it looked like the hunt was about to begin. As we watched, the lioness slowly crept her way through the dry riverbed towards the waterhole where the herd of buffalo were cautiously drinking. The herd began to casually move away from the water, and still not aware of what was lurking in the short grass behind them!
Within seconds she sprang into action, dust flying as the herd of buffalo scattered. The sounds of the action were just exhilarating! As the dust settled, we saw just one buffalo that was down, and suddenly, a male lion appeared and was ready to assist. Within a flash, there were more lions, and the buffalo was held down by his throat.
Within minutes the buffalo was dead. I know this may sound strange, but it was an honour to bear witness to nature in action. I must say, I was worried about how I would feel seeing an animal killed, but being caught up in the action, I found that this is natural and normal. I felt some sadness about the death of the buffalo, but this was a hunt in full view with no edits.
What is your favorite sundowner drink on safari?
Kola tonic and lemonade – It is so refreshing!
What is your favorite beach in Africa?
Camps Bay Beach in Cape Town. Also known as the party beach! I always take advantage of the opportunity to go down to the beach, whether it is just going to watch the sunset, or to take a dip in the Atlantic Ocean.
What is your favorite animal and why?
Zebras. They are the most photogenic with their eye-catching stripes!
Come and experience all the beauties of the African Continent. We are waiting for you!
