In May 2023, Nature Connect issued a call for ten  interns and five Work Integrated Learners (WIL) studying Nature Conservation to participate in a 12-month internship program facilitated by the organisation. This initiative was generously supported by the Culture, Arts, Tourism, Hospitality, and Sport Sector Education and Training Authority (CATHSSETA).

Traditionally, the internship program had primarily focused on the Western Cape region. However, due to an overwhelmingly positive response from candidates outside of this region, the program’s scope has been expanded to include areas such as KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape. In this expansion, Nature Connect has established partnerships with prominent institutions: the South African Association for Marine Biological Research and Balele Game Reserve, situated in eThekwini and Utrecht respectively. Furthermore, Nature Connect has solidified its collaboration with the Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB), an organisation with whom we already share a partnership in Cape Town. We extend our gratitude to our existing host site partners – Shark Spotters, SANParks, and Westville Primary School – for their continued commitment to maintaining these relationships and providing a practical learning environment for our enthusiastic learners.

Their comprehensive induction took place on August 2nd, 2023, at the Zeekoevlei Yacht Club. The event was thoughtfully designed, blending in-person attendance with an online component for some of the interns.

We are truly thrilled to welcome these interns and learners to our team. We are confident that they will acquire a substantial wealth of knowledge over the upcoming year, with the aspiration of eventually making a meaningful and positive impact within the Nature Conservation sector. We eagerly anticipate observing their growth and progress.