WILDLIFE VOLUNTEERING: THE RED FLAGS MOST PEOPLE MISS
Get the free guide
I’d like to start of by expressing my utmost gratitude to African Conservation Experience (ACE) and the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre for allowing me the opportunity to work with such amazing creatures and people and for giving me encouragement to pursue a career in wildlife medicine and rehabilitation.
I’ve yet to see a more driving force in the never-ending battle of environmental conservation.
The level of compassion and effort they put into the welfare of the wildlife under their care left me awe-struck, to say the least.
It’s no secret that environmentalism is an important cause that’s seldom prioritised in this world.
Until you’ve put boots on the ground, it’s impossible to fully comprehend just how deeply rooted these issues lie and how much effort it takes to make short and long-term progress.
During my time at Moholoholo, I was blessed to get elbow-deep in the dirty work of wildlife care and maintenance; everything from food prep to cleaning to enrichment required such a calculated approach to maximise the quality of life for those to be released and those who remain inhabitants at the sanctuary.
I was able to see the full circle of life take place during my time there, seeing neonatal care, health maintenance of adult inhabitants, successful rehabilitation and release, and even the process and aftercare of the wildlife who passed on after succumbing to injuries too severe.
I received an education like no other, learning about how all aspects of the local ecosystem interact with each other, and how we can help preserve and heal the areas that are in decline. Also, I was able to get an understanding of how the sociopolitical climates of the area affect everything from individual animals down to the quality of the soil that they tread upon.
The people I met at ACE and Moholoholo are some of the most professional, wise, and compassionate people I have ever had the pleasure of interacting with.
I am so grateful to have worked with them, and I’m incredibly excited to return in the future!
Feeling inspired by Izak Thomas's experience?
Learn more about our Study & Career Programs or Volunteer Experiences
Stories, tips, recommendations – they’re the glue that binds our community together. So if you’re planning your trip, why not hear what previous travellers have to say?
