by Nokwanda Ndlovu

Embarking on an Internship Programme with Nature’s Valley Trust intertwined my passion with purpose in the space of environmental conservation through education and awareness. My placement with NVT fostered my connection to nature and a deeper understanding of ecological challenges. I will forever be grateful for this immersive opportunity that will forever be in my heart and mind.

I joined NVT in May 2023 as part of the WWF Graduate Leadership Programme as an Environmental Educator and Extension Officer. My main responsibilities involved planning and conducting conservation education lessons relevant to the nature contexts in Nature’s Valley, Covie, Crags and Plettenberg Bay, engaging with various stakeholders including schools, eco-club committees and local organizations, collection and capturing of data as well community outreach and skills development in local areas.

       
Engaging in hands-on projects, such as species monitoring including birds, insects, bushbuck, stranded animals rescues (seals) as well as mitigating pollution by collecting micro / macroplastics and managing the Crags Primary School WESSA Eco-Schools club provided a valuable practical experience. I had never thought I would ever be able to point out birds and easily identify them and these are some of my unforgettable moments.

While at Nature’s Valley I got to collaborate with a diverse group of dedicated, like-minded professionals and peers that showed a sense of community and shared commitment to conservation goals.

     
The skills and insights I acquired during this time have significantly enhanced my career prospects, and I am eager to apply them in future endeavors. They really renewed my sense of purpose and an opportunity to contribute to environmental conservation in a very beautiful, pristine and breathtaking place. So far, there is no outdoor beauty for me that exceeds that of Nature’s Valley that deepened my connection to the environment and the collective action taken in preserving nature.

The mentorship has been instrumental in my professional and personal development, and I am truly appreciative of the opportunities NVT offered me to learn and grow. Thank you to the team for your dedication and a rewarding experience. I am thankful to the people who led me, Prof Hendri and Lauren as well as the entire NVT team ( Giorgio, Kayla and Sky ).