Meet Bridget Mack from Zimbabwe, one of the young ladies who attended SAWC in 2016. CITW had the chance to meet with Bridget and chat to her about her experience at the college.
CITW: How would you describe your experience at the South African Wildlife College?
BM: It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience as I learnt about my environment, how to recycle plastic, how I can help improve how we humans treat animals and I managed to conquer my fear of wild animals when we did our “bush phase.” Above all, I learnt how to communicate with all age groups and to respect other people’s cultural values.
CITW: How has this opportunity impacted your life?
BM: It has changed my life a lot because I can now help farmers in my village to deal with problem animals. Before the course, I used to kill snakes and other animals but now I have been educated not to and my life has changed. Career-wise, this opportunity helped me to have a different view of my future where I can proudly say I want to learn more about nature and environmental education.
CITW: If there is a country you would want to go to further your studies where would that be and why?
BM: I would love to go back to Southern African Wildlife College in South Africa to further my studies because the college focuses more on practical training and it makes it easier to apply the learnings in the workplace.
CITW: What is your advice for the Eco-Stars out there?
BM: I would advise them to love nature and help protect animals and stop rhino poaching.
After completing her work placement at Linkwasha Camp with Wilderness Safaris at the end of December 2016, Bridget applied for a job with Wilderness Safaris. She has been employed as a Trainee Manager at Linkwasha Camp in Hwange National Park as of March 2017. She wants to gain further experience whilst waiting for an opportunity to further her studies at SAWC. She hopes to complete her degree with SAWC through correspondence.
To read more on our partnership with the Southern African Wildlife College, click here.
