WILDLIFE VOLUNTEERING: THE RED FLAGS MOST PEOPLE MISS
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Recently, I had the incredible opportunity to complete one week at the Phinda Wildlife Research Project with African Conservation Experience (ACE). I took a sabbatical from work and I wanted to immerse myself in a completely new experience with the opportunity to help out in the conservation world.
The primary reason I chose ACE out of the many other programs available was the focused nature of ACE on wildlife conservation and working directly with conservationists.
From the moment I connected with ACE, I knew this was the right fit. Between the consultative nature of the team to help place me in the right project and the top-notch customer service that the team answered all my questions, I felt very comfortable. The pre-departure packet in particular, was extremely helpful.
Having everything handled from arrival to departure allowed me to fully be part of the experience.
Being on-site at Phinda was amazing. It was the perfect balance of being well programmed but open enough for any last-minute adventures too. I particularly loved the hands-on experience, it was amazing!
It was nice to have a group of other volunteers in the house to compare notes with and spend time with too. Our staff at Phinda were phenomenal!
I would absolutely recommend this to others and am considering doing another trip myself!
This was a life-changing trip for me. From connecting with my housemates on the project, to doing something totally different. I've already started taking some classes in my spare time that focus on various aspects of conservation. I'm not sure where it will lead yet, but I know this will go down as an experience that left a true impact on my life. I hope that I was able to give Phinda just a fraction (at least) of what I got from this experience.
Thank you to the whole team at Phinda and at ACE. I truly appreciate you!
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