Kukama Wildlife College Newsletter – August 2026

Celebrating the Women of Kukama

This month, we wanted to do something a little different at Kukama Wildlife College.

Women’s Month gives us the perfect opportunity to celebrate some of the women who have become part of the Kukama story — from students who took that first brave step into the wildlife industry to the women working behind the scenes helping Kukama grow.

Their journeys are all different.

Some are already working in the wildlife industry. Some are still finding their place. Some are only just beginning.

And that is exactly what makes their stories worth sharing.

There is no single path into conservation, guiding — or life, for that matter.

So this month, this one is for the girls.

Although, naturally, because the bush has a sense of humour, our August intake is an all-boys group.

In Women’s Month.

Timing, gentlemen. 😄

A Note from Nikki at Olienhout

Being a woman means wearing many different hats.

Some days they fit beautifully. Other days, there seem to be far too many of them.

There are days when we are everything to everyone — trying to keep up with the lists, responsibilities, expectations and all the little things that need us. Somewhere amongst it all, we can sometimes forget to make space for ourselves.

That is one of the things I love about spring.

It reminds us that life happens in cycles.

There are seasons when we feel full of energy, when everything seems to be falling into place and we feel completely ourselves. Then there are seasons when it feels like we are losing all our leaves.

But the trees don’t panic.

They trust the season. They stand still. They rest. And when the time is right, they begin again.

As winter starts to loosen its grip and the first signs of spring begin appearing on Olienhout Game Reserve, it is a lovely reminder that growth isn’t always obvious.

Sometimes it happens quietly.

Sometimes it looks like rest, reflection, courage, change — or simply deciding that you are ready for something new.

So, to every woman reading this:

Wherever you are in your own season, trust it. There is always another spring.

With love & gratitude,
Nikki

Noemi Iseppi

Italy

What brought you to Kukama?

I wanted to become a field guide and worked hard to afford the experience, so finding the right school was important to me.

I wanted somewhere with similar values, ethics and respect for nature.

As soon as I saw the Kukama website and spoke to Nikki, I knew I had found it.

What was your biggest challenge?

Bugs, insects and the thought that one day I might come across something venomous!

Coming from somewhere where these species are not part of everyday life, I became very aware of everything around me.

But that fear also taught me something important — to really observe my surroundings.

People often think of nature as dangerous, yet I have never felt safer in nature than I did at Kukama.

What did Kukama teach you?

That we never stop learning.

Even when you think you know something, there is always someone — or something — that makes you reconsider it.

Rather than being discouraging, that can be incredibly inspiring.

Where has your journey taken you?

I am currently working as a Northern Lights guide in Northern Europe and studying botany, forest systems and the benefits nature has on humans.

My goal is to become a Forest Therapist, taking groups into the forest and helping people reconnect with the fact that we are still part of nature.

What would you say to another young woman?

“Just go girl! Choosing nature is never a wrong idea!”

Sometimes “just go” really is the best place to start.

Mia Fourie

What brought you to Kukama?

I have always had a big love for the Kalahari, so choosing Kukama was an easy decision.

Who wouldn’t want to spend two months in the Kalahari learning more about something they already love?

From day one, I knew I was exactly where I was meant to be.

What was your biggest challenge?

Adjusting to a new place, getting to know people of different ages and backgrounds, and living in such proximity to one another.

But in the end, you learn a lot more about yourself and how to navigate different people.

What did Kukama teach you?

To always remember why you made the decision to do the course in the first place.

Be yourself, work hard and put in the effort to achieve your goals and dreams.

Where has your journey taken you?

I was fortunate to be offered an internship at Maloba Private Game Reserve, also in the Kalahari.

It showed me that what I learnt at Kukama, and applying that knowledge, could open doors.

I’m planning to start my NQF 4 workbook and continue growing in my knowledge as a guide. This is only the beginning of my field guide journey.

What would you say to another young woman?

“Go for it! If it’s really something you want to make a career out of, you will not be disappointed. Never doubt yourself just because you’re a woman — you are stronger than you think.”

We couldn’t agree more.

Anlea du Plessis

What brought you to Kukama?

I would definitely say it was fate.

I had gotten to know the owners beforehand, but I believe everything happened exactly as it should have. It was the right time in my life, and I’m still very grateful for the opportunity.

What was your biggest challenge?

Getting used to studying again.

But it came back naturally because this is something I have always been interested in. Being in the bush and learning about everything it holds has always been something I enjoy.

What did Kukama teach you?

Always stay humble.

Where has your journey taken you?

After Kukama, I had the opportunity to complete an internship at Maloba Private Game Reserve.

After three months, I was offered a working contract, and I am now one of their guides. It has been amazing so far.

What would you say to another young woman?

“Don’t listen to everyone who tells you that it is a man’s career. Yes, things can be more challenging for you, but that’s only part of building yourself up and enjoying the field even more.”

Challenging? Sometimes.

Worth it? Absolutely.

Rouxlé van der Westhuizen

For Rouxlé, her time at Kukama Wildlife College meant far more than simply completing a course.

What did Kukama mean to you?

My time at Kukama shaped me, taught me a great deal and made my passion for nature and wildlife even stronger.

Kukama will always be an important part of my journey and my future.

Where are you now?

I am currently based in North West and still looking for the right opportunity where I can put my knowledge and passion into practice.

In the meantime, I continue learning every day, gaining new experience and enjoying every part of the journey.

What would you say to someone considering Kukama?

“If you love nature, this is definitely a course you should not miss. Don’t think twice — do it! You won’t regret it!”

Rouxlé also carries a quote by Leonardo da Vinci that perfectly captures something she learnt during her time at Kukama:

“Nature is the source of all true knowledge.”

We may be slightly biased, but we agree.

A Note from Renee

What is my role with Kukama?

I work closely with Nikki and the Kukama team on the marketing, design and creative direction of the brand.

My role is really about helping tell the Kukama story — making sure what people see and read reflects the heart, personality and purpose behind the college.

What do I do?

I create.

Websites, newsletters, campaigns, adverts, wording, concepts and ideas — sometimes all before coffee, which is not always advisable.

I love taking something from a rough idea and turning it into something that feels personal and true to the people behind it.

What has life taught me?

That you really are never too old to do something new.

Life changes, plans change and people change — and sometimes the best things happen when you are willing to change with them.

I’ve also learnt to value the simple things more: my children, my grandchild, my partner, my animals, my health, good people, laughter and time.

And I’m still learning. Constantly.

What has working with Kukama taught me?

Kukama has reminded me how special it is to work with people who genuinely care about what they are building.

Watching this project grow has been incredibly rewarding, and being trusted with the brand has meant a great deal to me.

It has also reminded me why I love the bush so much.

I’m an African through and through.

Give me my binoculars, a pair of walking shoes, fresh air and a bit of peace and quiet, and I’m completely at home.

What advice would I give to other women?

Back yourself.

Keep learning. Keep laughing. Keep trying new things.

Do not put an age limit on your dreams, and don’t assume you have missed your chance simply because life has taken you down a different road.

You are never too old to begin again, change direction or do something completely new.

And a very special thank you to Nikki and the Kukama team for trusting me with your work and allowing me to be part of your vision.

It has been such a privilege watching Kukama grow from strength to strength.

Renee McMagh

From the bush,
Nikki & the Kukama Family