Children in the Wilderness Zambezi (CITW), in partnership with Jacada Travel, is proudly supporting four young women from the Ngamo community near Hwange National Park through a learner guide sponsorship programme that aims to empower future conservation leaders. CITW Zambezi Assistant Impact Manager Cynthia Ndiweni reports on their progress, and recent visit to the park.
Growing up alongside wildlife, these young women have witnessed first-hand how communities can benefit from living in harmony with nature. Their passion for conservation and tourism has inspired them to pursue careers in professional guiding.
The trainees began their studies at Don Bosco Technical College, where they studied key subjects required in Zimbabwe’s guiding industry, including Wildlife Habits & Habitats, Conservation Law, Firearms Handling, General Paper, and Field Guiding. Through both classroom and practical training, they have developed essential skills in wildlife behaviour, conservation ethics, bush safety, communication, and guiding techniques.
The students are now continuing their studies at Ngamo Livestock Farm & Vocational College, focusing on Wildlife Management and sustainable conservation practices. This initiative is more than a training opportunity; it is an investment in young women who are passionate about protecting wildlife, uplifting their communities, and shaping the future of conservation in Zimbabwe.
The trainees recently enjoyed an unforgettable educational visit to Wilderness Linkwasha in the national park, where learning moved from the classroom and into the wild when they had an exciting opportunity to accompany Tor Saner from Jacada Travel on their safari. For all of them, it was a dream come true; finally seeing in real life the wildlife and environments they had as yet only studied in books at college. On a game drive through the park, every sighting became a learning moment. Animals, tracks, bird calls, and habitats suddenly came alive beyond the pages of their study material. Upon arriving at camp, the trainees were warmly welcomed and treated as guests themselves, making the experience even more special and inspiring.
The highlight of the visit was an afternoon game drive led by Peter Gava, a guide from Linkwasha. Peter has a great passion for helping youngsters reach their dreams, and is personally invested in the future of African conservation. ‘I love to be able to help others deepen their passion and enrich their future,’ he often says.
He encouraged the trainees to take an active role by sharing what they knew about the animals they spotted along the way. What began as a game drive soon became an outdoor classroom filled with questions, discussions, laughter, and learning. With their exams coming up in September, the drive provided a great opportunity for revision. The trainees enthusiastically shared their knowledge, tested each other’s understanding, and built confidence in applying what they have learned throughout their training.
The young women were especially inspired by Peter, whose patience, passion, and wealth of knowledge left a lasting impression on them. His willingness to explain, teach, and encourage the trainees reminded them of the kind of professional guides they hope to become in the future. The visit to Linkwasha was more than just a field trip – it was motivation, inspiration, and a glimpse into the exciting future that awaits them in Zimbabwean conservation and guiding.
As the sun slowly set, the memorable afternoon ended with sundowners at this private Wilderness concession’s famous Scott’s Pan. Surrounded by the beauty of the park, the trainees watched in awe as herds of elephants paraded across the open plains before making their way to the waterhole for an evening drink. It was a magical moment; one of those true Hwange experiences that cannot be encompassed in a book or classroom.
As darkness slowly settled over the landscape and Hwange’s cold winter evening crept in, the drive back to camp was both joyful and bittersweet. The trainees reflected on the extraordinary experiences of their day, the lessons learnt, and the unforgettable memories they had created together. During the evening debrief in camp, one thing became clear: it had been a day well spent. Everyone had learnt something new, shared knowledge freely, and gained a deeper understanding of the wildlife and guiding industry they are preparing to enter.
For the trainees, this was far more than just a visit to the park. It was a unique and life-changing experience that inspired, encouraged, and motivated them even further on their journey to becoming professional guides. It is undoubtedly a memory they will cherish for the rest of their lives.
We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Jacada Travel, whose generous support has made this entire learner guide training journey possible from the very beginning. Their commitment to empowering young women in conservation and tourism is truly appreciated, and we remain deeply thankful for their kindness, belief, and continued backing.
