Future bird-watching tourism leaders

After a trying and tough week of long hours and hard work our guides from Ongoye and Southern KZN completed their first module of the tourism entrepreneur training with Linda McClure from Junior Achievement South Africa (JASA). The course included intensive training on conducting market research through to interviewing existing businesses, which they did covering existing successful businesses in Wakkerstroom. Meeting established players as well as new entrants provided stimulating inputs for the guides, particularly those wishing to pursue the development of their own ideas. A big thank you must go to Wakkerstroom and its wonderfully warm and accommodating business people and residents.

At the end of the module Linda's feedback regarding the guides was objective and refreshing. Ideas for local birding tourism businesses ranged from community guest houses to indigenous nurseries and regional tours. This is the first important step for the guides. They have now returned home, armed with new insights and a project that they must complete before their next closing module in late November. On their return to Wakkerstroom they will undertake the toughest portion of the training, the development of budgets and the financial components. Hold thumbs for them as we hope they all apply their new skills and perspectives to the best of their ability.

Both Kristi, Andre and Thuli made our stay wonderful and certainly went out of their way to get the guides the best possible experience and opportunities for growth. Our training journey did not end their as we managed to squeeze in some bird-watching for the guides who enjoyed the company of the Grey-Crowned Cranes, Black-Bellied Bustard and the various specials of the Wakkerstroom region. I will keep you all posted regarding their development. To S'Bo, Sibusiso, Evidence, Abednego, Simphiwe and Lindalahni thank you so much for your time and effort. Lindalahni who is one of the Network members can be contacted directly regarding his experience on the programme.