There are some trips you just can't explain. There's a pull from your roots. An emotional cord that is being played. I had to go home. Back home to Africa.
I was born in South Africa, we emigrated when I was very young. Despite this, I never lost my connection to home. Memories of the deep orange sunsets and the cry of the hadida reminded me of the life I once had.
I decided to book a trip to Phinda Wildlife Research Project for three weeks. And it changed my life. Getting into the nitty gritty of conservation and hearing different perspectives and opinions - you realise just how challenging conservation is.
There is no roadmap that has all the answers. It's trial and error and grit and determination.
I wanted to come home and this was one of the ways that I could do it. If you want a once-in-a-lifetime experience, then this is what you do. It doesn't involve fancy hotels and lodges, but you will be driving around in a beautiful reserve, and you will get your hands dirty and feel what it feels like to be in the presence of these animals that are in their own habitat.
The moment that changed everything for me was meeting one specific elephant at Phinda. He's quite unique in his behaviour, and I just fell in love with him straight away. It was amazing to be on the same path that he’s walked on for 40 years. His majestic walk and the way he moves within his surroundings was mesmerising. This is a wild animal in its prime. It was amazing that I could share his environment and contribute to keeping him safe.
Each day has brought a routine and a sense of peace but is different in its activities and sightings. I've seen and experienced so much - it's hard to put into words so others can understand what it's like. I’ve watched how amazing drones can be in day-to-day conservation, and I've seen rhino horn trimming and translocations of rhinos. I've witnessed a cheetah being treated. The list goes on!
I feel inspired and empowered. I feel connected to the project and everything they do. I feel the need to do more, learn more. Maybe this is the start of a new direction for me. I really don't know. What I do know is I am so thankful I signed up for this trip. The African Conservation Experience team has been amazing.
Who knows, maybe I will find myself wearing the ACE volunteer shirt again in the future!
Feeling inspired by Michelle Jacobs's experience?
Learn more about Phinda Wildlife Research Project.
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