The 2025 Sibuya FGASA Internship is officially underway, welcoming 11 passionate students who are well on their way towards becoming qualified Field Guides. This immersive, year-long programme blends intensive theory with hands-on experience, equipping each learner with the skills and confidence to enter the guiding industry. From mastering bird calls and mammal behaviour to tackling 4×4 driving and identifying indigenous trees, the interns will work through 17 challenging modules—all under the mentorship of our experienced guiding team and will then sit external exams. Now in its fourth year, the internship continues to be a source of pride for Sibuya, as we nurture fresh talent and help shape the next generation of conservation ambassadors absolutely free of charge. They do their practical internship with us and are then ready to take on the world!
Luke
My name is Luke and I’m from George. I’m enjoying all aspects of the course, especially spending time in nature observing and interpreting the ongoing natural processes we’re privileged to witness. I love that you never know what you might see and how every day offers a new and unique learning experience. It’s hard to pick a favourite animal, but in honour of my younger self who always wanted to be a guide, I’ll say the Cheetah — because “it’s fast.”
Sipho (Awesome-Psyfo) Mabala
Hi everyone, my name is Sipho (Awesome-Psyfo) Mabala and I’m from Kenton-on-Sea. I’m currently studying to become a Field Guide at Sibuya Game Reserve. I like to think of myself as a nature enthusiast with a friendly persona. My favourite part of the course is the game drives and nature walks. I’m a visual learner and I truly enjoy interacting with people. My favourite animal is the Giraffe — the watchers of the world! A farsighted animal, it eats from the top of the plate and is a gentle giant.
Masixole “Jay” Siyazi
My name is Masixole Siyazi, but everyone calls me Jay. I was born and raised on a farm near Grahamstown. As a kid, I spent most of my time playing in the bush. After finishing high school, I started working at a reserve near Grahamstown, where my passion for the bush grew. I worked as a tracker for a few years, engaging with guests and animals. Now, as a student at Sibuya Game Reserve, I’m loving the course. The most enjoyable part is how everything out there makes sense—from tiny insects to large mammals like the Savannah Elephant. The puzzle is finally coming together. Big thanks to our trainer, Mr Chris Ovens.
Jessica
Hello, my name is Jessica. I was born in Johannesburg and grew up in a small town called George. I’m absolutely loving the course, although it is a lot of work. My favourite part is learning about birds and their calls. I love trying to identify the different birds I see on the reserve. My favourite animal is the Waterbuck — I think it looks like a teddy bear. They’re really very cute!
Jaden
My name is Jaden. I was born in Switzerland but moved shortly afterwards to Kenton-on-Sea, just down the road from Sibuya, with my mother and father. My dad used to be a guide here when I was very young and helped build Forest Camp, so you could say I have a rich history with this place. About eight years later, we moved to Cape Town due to limited work opportunities in Kenton. I went to Fish Hoek Primary and High School until Grade 9 and then moved back to Switzerland after COVID-19 hit. I lived there for 4.5 years with my mother and sister. Now, I’ve come full circle — back to where it all began — this time as a Field Guide in training.
Grace
Hi, my name is Grace. I’m a South African-American adoptee — I spent my early childhood in Pretoria and was later raised in the suburbs of Chicago (Go Cubs! 🐻). I’m really enjoying the course; every day feels different and exciting. I love the practical side — game drives, applying classroom theory, and being immersed in nature. My favourite animal is the African Elephant, not only for its strength and intelligence, but also because the place I was born translates to “Head of the Elephant.” They always remind me of where I come from.
Jason
Hello, my name is Jason and I’m from Port Elizabeth, South Africa. I’m really enjoying the course because it’s opened my eyes to so many aspects of nature and how everything connects. I love being out in the bush and understanding what’s happening around me. My favourite animal has to be the Honey Badger — fearless, tough, and clever.
Braiden
Hi everyone, my name is Braiden and I’m from East London. I’m really enjoying the course because I learn something new every day. My favourite part is spending time in this stunning natural environment and getting the chance to observe wildlife daily. My favourite animal is the Kudu — its long, spiral horns symbolise strength and power.
Lebogang
Hello, my name is Lebogang, born and bred in Mpumalanga — ‘the land of the rising sun’. What I love about the course is learning how everything in the universe is connected — from the soil to the stars (well, our instructor is the best!). The part I enjoy most is being in the wild, seeing animals, and deepening my theoretical knowledge. My favourite animal is the Lion. I’ve always been fascinated by their social dynamics — they remind me of my own family and the warmth of being together. Luckily, I now have two families: my own and the Sibuya team!
Nicole
Hi, my name is Nicole and I’m from East London in the Eastern Cape. I’m enjoying the course and love that every day is different. You never know what’s going to happen or what animals or birds you might see. I enjoy spending time on the reserve looking for new sightings. My favourite animal is the Elephant — they’re beautiful, sociable, and symbolise wisdom, loyalty and strength.
Ndiene
Hi, my name is Ndiene and I’m from Polokwane, Limpopo. I’m thrilled to be part of this incredible course! Living my dream of working at Sibuya Game Reserve, I’m loving every moment — especially observing wildlife in its natural habitat and learning about their fascinating behaviour. My favourite animal is the Leopard — a master of stealth and strength. I’m fascinated by how it stalks its prey and hoists its kill up into trees, showing just how powerful and adaptable it is.
