WESSA Annual Report 2023-2024

Celebrating training success Solomon Kgolane, a standout participant in the programme, has already started making a significant impact. He was chosen to lead a guided tour at his local nature reserve on Mandela Day. This marked his first major step as a professional guide. This opportunity not only highlights his personal growth but also highlights the effectiveness of WESSA’s training in preparing participants to opportunities. Solomon’s story is inspiring and a wonderful example of the power of education and the lasting impact it can have on individuals and communities alike. Philisiwe Joyisa is now working at the Pretoria National Zoological Gardens as a tour guide. She is very excited and excelling at her new role and thanks WESSA for the skills she acquired during the Nature Site Guide training. The Nature Site Guide Training Programme exemplifies WESSA’s commitment to excellence in environmental education. Through this programme, WESSA has success fully equipped ten young South Africans with the skills and knowledge needed to excel in nature site guiding, thereby contributing to the broader goals of conservation and sustainable tourism.

in building trust and credibility with tourists and stakeholders alike. Tourist health, safety, and legal compliance (Jan 29-Feb 2, 2023) 3 Ensuring the health and safety of tourists is paramount. During this module, participants were trained in risk assessment, legal requirements, and safety protocols. Additionally, they were introduced to reflective practices, enabling them to continuously eval uate and improve their guiding techniques. This module provided an in-depth exploration of South Africa’s rich biodiversity. Participants learned to identify and interpret the signs and sounds of the natural environment, with a strong emphasis on conservation and environmental stewardship. This knowledge is critical for guides, as it allows them to educate tourists on the importance of protecting our natural heritage. Flora, fauna, and ecosystem interpretation (unit standard 8440 - Feb 5-9, 2023) 4

the rich cultural narratives of the regions. This comprehensive understanding of both natural and cultural heritage forms the foundation of an exceptional nature site guide. The programme concluded with a final assessment from 2-5 April 2023, at the Johannesburg Zoo. The participants excelled, with their performance reflecting a thorough understanding of the training and a strong ability to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Solomon Kgolane

The Nature Site Guide Training Programme focused on the practical application of learned skills. WESSA arranged for hands-on experience in guiding and environmental management at prominent environmental sites, including the Johannesburg Zoo, Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve, and Kloofendal Nature Reserve. Reflecting on the impact of WESSA’s Training Programmes on workplace integration

Johannesburg Zoo

Participants learned to interpret animal behaviour and effectively communicate this knowledge to visitors, enhancing their ability to deliver engaging tours.

Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve

The training provided by WESSA equips young individuals with the skills to become proficient nature site guides, empowering them to lead conservation efforts and promote sustainable tourism. These skills also enable participants to enhance the visitor experience at local nature sites and raise awareness of the importance of conservation within their communities. Participants gained exposure to diverse habitats and guided visitors through areas rich in cultural and natural history, solidifying their confidence and competence as nature site guides. Participants applied their knowledge of flora and fauna in a natural environment, guiding visitors through the reserve and educating them on the area’s ecological significance, honing their skills in ecosystem interpretation and visitor engagement. Kloofendal Nature Reserve

Cultural and archaeological interpretation (Feb 12-19, 2023)

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The final module introduced partici pants to the archaeological and cultural history of South Africa. Through the study of artifacts, structures, and other historical evidence, participants gained the ability to interpret and communicate

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WESSA ANNUAL REPORT 2023 – 2024

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