Our Story
Unlocking eager talent
and bringing hope
to young South Africans
WHO WE ARE
Bushwise Academy is the social development arm of Bushwise, an established safari training organisation trusted by South Africa’s ecotourism sector.
The Academy draws from Bushwise’s 20 year track record of providing safari guide education. We use a well-established curriculum, professional network and facilities to make conservation a contributor to rural economic development and inclusion.
Holding exclusive IFGA accreditation, which internationally recognises high standards in safari guide education, Bushwise provides an excellent starting point for a career in wildlife conservation.
WHY WE STARTED
Recognising a need to expand local involvement in conservation - and seeing a wealth of untapped talent in rural communities - we saw an opportunity to bridge this gap. This insight sparked the creation of Bushwise Academy.
With the view that the preservation of nature should begin with those who live alongside it, Bushwise Academy recruits young people directly from communities surrounding its training campuses. With your support, we provide a quality education and kickstart their careers in conservation.
We’ve trained 54 students so far, of whom 51 have secured employment. We’re confident in the Bushwise Academy model’s ability to provide all-inclusive accommodation, personalized mentoring and support. With our network of 120 partner lodges and reserves, we guarantee our students employment in the industry.
