How I ended up in the Just Africa Scuba Career Development Program

Hi, my name is JJ, and I was born and raised in South Africa. As a child, I always had a fascination with the natural world and spent much of my time exploring our bush felt and coastline. It was this love of nature that ultimately led me down the path of becoming a field guide.

After finishing school at a young age, I enrolled in a training program for field guides and spent a year working in the bush, leading safaris and educating tourists about the incredible wildlife of South Africa. It was during this time that I became acutely aware of the poaching problem that was plaguing the continent and felt a strong urge to do something to help.

I began working with local conservation organizations, volunteering my time to help with anti-poaching efforts. It was hard, dangerous work, but I was determined to make a difference. Over time, I became more involved in the fight against poaching, working closely with conservationists and law enforcement officials to protect South Africa's wildlife.

Eventually, I decided that I wanted to take my passion for conservation to the next level, and signed up for a career development program in the scuba diving industry. Although it was a big change from my previous work as a ranger, I was excited about the new challenges and opportunities that awaited me.

Over the next year, I hope to learn everything I can about scuba diving and eventually become a certified instructor. I will use my skills and knowledge to help educate people about the importance of protecting our natural world.

Looking back on my journey, I feel proud of everything that I've accomplished so far. Although there is still much work to be done, I know that I will continue to do everything in my power to protect our planet's incredible wildlife and natural resources.

Nature's Connection

The oceans and the African bush

Connected in ways beyond our hush

The passion we feel, so intense

As we witness nature's grand defence

 

The waves crash upon the shore

As the lions roar, forevermore

The salty sea and dusty land

A wildlife haven, beautifully grand

 

The tides ebb and flow with the wind

As the wildebeest roam, without end

The sun sets, painting the sky

As the dolphins swim, they fly

 

The rhythm of the ocean's song

Echoes through the bush, all day long

The harmony of the wild's tune

Soothes the soul, like a sweet perfume

 

The ocean and the African plains

Linked together, without any strains

The passion we feel, so deep

As we watch nature's secrets, we keep

 

The beauty of the oceans and the bush

A connection that makes us all rush

To protect and preserve, with all our might

For future generations, to see the light.

 

Written By
JJ Engelbrecht

Career Development Student 2023