Biomonitoring Manager
Megan was born in 1996 and was raised and educated in Johannesburg. Her interest in wildlife and conservation developed, with many trips to various game reserves during school holidays. After matriculating, she completed her FGASA 1 training with EcoTraining. This was then followed by a BSc in Conservation and Ecology at Stellenbosch University. After her BSc, she spent a year gaining practical experience in conservation aspects and Lodge Management. This was followed by another stint with EcoTraining, where she completed a Trails Guiding course, which included Advanced Rifle Handling. These courses re-affirmed her interest in the bush and the ecological importance of land and animal management, resulting in registering for and completing an MSc in Wildlife Health, Ecology and Management at the University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort Campus in 2024. During vacation breaks, she spent time doing volunteer work at different lodges and assisting with a study abroad semester progromme with the Organisation for Tropical Studies, Skukuza. She joined the Welgevonden Biomonitoring team in July 2024.
Workshop Manager
Connie Nel, originally from Modimolle, South Africa, embarked on a career journey marked by dedication and expertise. His professional odyssey commenced in 1991 when he joined the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) as a Diesel Mechanic. In this role, he honed his mechanical skills and demonstrated a commitment to service.
In 2003, Connie transitioned to the mining sector, where he contributed significantly for almost two decades until 2022. His tenure in mining was characterized by his passion for innovation and problem-solving, ensuring the smooth operation of heavy machinery vital to the industry.
Expanding his horizons globally, Connie ventured to the United States, specifically Mississippi, where he furthered his career working on earthmoving equipment until 2023. His international stint provided him with invaluable experience.
Biomonitoring Officer
Barend was born in 2001 in Trichardt, Mpumalanga. He attended Boerefort Primary School in Pretoria but in 2011 moved to Switzerland with his family where he completed his primary education at La Côte International School Aubonne, Switzerland. Barend completed his high school education at the International School of Geneva, Switzerland, matriculating with the International Baccalaureate Careers Programme (IBCP) qualification.
Having a deep love for nature and interest in conservation Barend decided to pursue a career in Nature Conservation. In 2020 he successfully completed a 23-week Bushwise Field Guides Course in Limpopo, South Africa, as well as a Research course with Bushwise in conjunction with Rhino revolution and Global Vision International (GVI) in the latter part of 2020.
In 2021, driven by his fervent love for nature, Barend pursued enrollment in the Diploma in Nature Conservation at Tshwane University of Technology (TUT). Barend is currently the Biomonitoring Officer at Welgevonden. Barend has a deep passion for Entomological studies and ecology.
WIL Student
Luhan, hailing from Pretoria with roots in Thohoyandou, Limpopo, is passionately dedicated to conservation due to his upbringing’s strong ties to nature.
His lifelong fascination with the natural world has inspired him to pursue a diploma in Nature Conservation at Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) and actively engages in the Work Integrated Learning (WIL) program at Welgevonden.
His fervent commitment drives him to make meaningful contributions to environmental protection.
WIL Student
Bianca Joubert was born and raised in Paarl , attended primary and high school in her hometown. In 2022, she embarked on her Nature Conservation Diploma journey at Nelson Mandela University in George.
Her enduring love for nature and wildlife fuels her enthusiasm for the next chapter of her life at Welgevonden.
WIL Student
Nosipho was born in Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal, completed her primary and high school education in her hometown before relocating to the Eastern Cape.
In pursuit of her passion for wildlife, she was accepted in Nelson Mandela University to pursue a diploma in Game Ranch Management.
She is gaining practical experience at Welgevonden. Her lifelong affinity for nature and animals has guided her path, leading her to where she is today.
Research Ecologist
Dave was born and raised in Durban, where he went onto complete his BSc at the University of Natal, Durban and then his BSc (Hons) at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. During his undergraduate years, he was privileged to assist various departmental staff with research projects in game reserves across South Africa where he developed his love for wildlife, the outdoors and game reserve living.
He went on to complete his MSc which focused on millipede, centipede and scorpion diversity in the Greater Makalali Conservancy where he remained on, for a year, as the Head of Research before moving across the road to Karongwe Private Game Reserve where he worked for Global Vision International undertaking priority species monitoring. Thereafter, he undertook his PhD on the habitat suitability of klipspringer and rock hyrax at Augrabies Falls National Park followed by a short period as a postdoctoral researcher in Kruger National Park determining the effect of elephants on large trees.
Following this, Dave again worked for Global Vision International as their Expedition Manager at Venetia Limpopo Nature Reserve followed by a stint as a post-doctoral researcher at Addo Elephant National Park, where his work focused on the effect of lions and spotted hyaena on the buffalo population.
Dave then moved to Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (HiP), where he held the position of Park Ecologist for a period of 15 years before moving to Welgevonden as the Research Ecologist. While working for Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife in HiP he also Chaired the KZN Wild Dog Management Group and the Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife Elephant Management Plan Review Committee and assisted on various national forums.
Priority Species Monitor
Alex deep connection to nature, cultivated during childhood moments at Kloofendal Nature Reserve near his grandparents’ house, it has fueled his profound love for the natural world. Alex is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science Honours in Environmental Management at Unisa, his academic journey includes a Bachelor of Technology in Nature Conservation from Tshwane University of Technology and a National Diploma in Nature Management from Centurion Academy.
Holding a Level 1 Field Guide of South Africa qualification, he showcased his passion for the conservation of southern African ecosystems through collaborative research with SAMBI, WWF, Panthera, and EWT.
As the priority Species Monitor at Welgevonden, he brings hands-on experience to the table, and he is eager to contribute and learn from fellow enthusiasts in the ongoing journey of environmental stewardship.
Deputy Security Manager
Mongezi Nene was born and raised in the small town of Nongoma, KwaZulu Natal. After matriculating from Mlokothwa High School, he went on to study Nature Conservation at Tshwane University of Technology.
In 2017, Mongezi was appointed as a WIL student at Welgevonden in 2017, later moving into the security department in 2018 where now manages the Joint Operations Centre (JOC). The JOC serves to ensure that every occurrence, incident, or event of any kind is handled fitly.
Security Manager
Philip was born in 1977 in East London and attended Grens High school in the Eastern Cape province. After matriculated in 1996 he joined a cash-in-transit company as a protection officer where he completed various courses in security and protection and left the company in 2010 as a Chief Protection Officer.
Philip joined QUEMIC in February 2010 as the Security Manager for Sabi Sand Wildtuin where he managed the anti-poaching operations and relocated in 2013 to Hoedspruit as the QUEMIC Area Manager of the Limpopo and Mpumalanga projects. Philip joined Meletse Private Game Reserve situated in the Rooiberg, Limpopo Province in April 2017 as the Security Manager who managed the anti-poaching operation, access, and egress control on the Reserve. Philip joined Welgevonden Reaction team in May 2021 as the Security Manager.
Biomonitoring Officer
Born and raised in the city with a heart longing for the bush, Kaylon’s journey began at Welgevonden. After matriculating, he came as a volunteer to see if he had what it takes to live in and work in the bush.
This life changing experience was complete confirmation that he belongs in conservation, so he left his permanent job to study Nature Conservation. During his student years he volunteered as a research assistant and landed up on Somkhanda Community Game Reserve. Here he was exposed to number of conservation activities including reserve maintenance, snare sweeps, wildlife monitoring, wildlife interventions, community work.
He undertook a business course, before finding himself back in the bush working for Wildlife ACT as a Priority Species Monitor at Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park and Conservation Course facilitator. Here, he gained valuable experience in a broad variety of monitoring and conservation activities including building a vulture recovery center, leopard surveys, camp maintenance, boma maintenance, boma care and feedings of wild dogs, endangered species monitoring, wildlife collarings, lion branding, relocation, introductions and bonding of wild dogs. He also contributed to vulture surveys which included fitting GPS trackers on Lappet-faced Vultures. 2024, he assumed the role of Biomonitoring Officer at Welgevonden.
Reaction Managing Director
Kassie was born in 1981 in Pretoria and attended Pretoria Technical High School in Pretoria Gardens. After finishing school in 1999 he joined the Fire Brigade as a reservist. In 2001 he joined a Cash-in-Transit company as a protection officer where he completed various courses in security and protection. In 2006 Kassie qualified in Firearms training and special tactics and became part of an elite training team in 2006.
Kassie joined QUEMIC’s training division in 2008 and moved to Welgevonden in June 2011 later becoming the QUEMIC Security Manager responsible for Welgevonden and all the associated anti-poaching and security. Kassie now manages the company Welgevonden Reaction NPC, responsible for anti-poaching, access/ egress and fence maintenance on the reserve as well as co-managing the Greater Marakele Security Cluster initiative between Welgevonden, Marakele National Park and the surrounding areas.
Kassie manages the company Welgevonden Reaction NPC since 2016 responsible for all security related matters on the reserve, as well as co-managing the Greater Marakele Security Cluster initiative between Welgevonden, Marakele National Park and the surrounding areas. Kassie is a contributing member of various National and Provincial Committees that focus on wildlife crime.
Assistant Conservation Manager & Compliance
Thuto-Boago Ngongwane was born in Kimberley in the Northern Cape province and raised in Taung Village (home) in the North West province. He grew up under the guidance and care of his grandparents, who taught and moulded him to be the person he is today. The love he has developed for nature started at home, driven the responsibilities of by farm life. This love grew further visiting his mother in various National Parks.
Thuto decided to pursue Nature Conservation chasing the passion and playing his part in conserving wildlife for present and future generations. After completing his WIL year on Welgevonden Game Reserve he stayed on assisting at the biomonitoring camp and thereafter went on to be the assistant conservation manager of the reserve.
Chief Executive Officer
Born in Johannesburg and having matriculated from Blairgowrie High School in 1986 André completed a B.Sc degree in Zoology and Botany, as well as a B.Sc. Honours in Wildlife Management at the University of Pretoria. Thereafter he spent 3 years in the Kruger National Park studying the nutritional ecology of bushbuck and nyala at Pafuri while at the same time being involved in and being exposed to all aspects of wildlife management in the Kruger. A move to the Klaserie Private Game Reserve managing a private property and camp, taking out childrens’ educational groups, guiding and hosting the owner’s guests kept him busy for approximately three years.
In June 1997 André joined Welgevonden as the Conservation Officer later becoming the Conservation Manager for the Reserve. He also stood in as Acting General Manager for 6 months in 2012 and in March 2014 was appointed Chief Operating Officer where he became responsible and/or involved directly or indirectly in the majority of aspects relating to the Reserve’s management. After a full 24 years on Welgevonden André took up the role of Chief Executive Officer.
Welgevonden Environmental Awareness Programme (WEAP) Coordinator
Moji grew up near Brits in the North West province of South Africa where he matriculated in 2001. He has always wanted to be involved with environmental education for community youth. After he matriculated, he worked at a factory and in his spare time he was heavily involved in anti-poaching activism, organising rallies and protests to take a stand against the rhino poaching crisis.
This led to the pursuit of a career in anti-poaching, with Moji taking up a position as an anti-poaching ranger in 2009 based in Naboomspruit, after which he received his qualification. His love and passion for the environment drove him to take up the position as the WEAP coordinator in 2017, where he has since thrived, living out his dream of bringing environmental education to the youth and impacting lives in the surrounding community.
Reception & Administration Assistant
Johanna was born and educated in Vaalwater for both primary and high school. She furthered her schooling at Tshwane University of Technology where she obtained a National Diploma in Human Resources and Management with payroll certificates.
Her internship was completed in Kruger National Park based at Skukuza camp after which she was employed at Absa Bank, where she worked from 2015 – 2021. She joined Welgevonden Game Reserve as the Reception and Administration Assistant in April 2021.
Communications & Marketing Coordinator
Boitumelo grew up in Pretoria and she recently completed her Nature Conservation diploma. She is thoughtful, attentive, intuitive person with a passion for nature, the protection and management of the environment and her family.
She wants to pursue an advanced diploma to further her career in nature conservation. Boitumelo is an avid adventurer and nature enthusiast who has recently discovered a passion for capturing the beauty of wildlife through photography.
Once her Work Integrated Learning year at Welgevonden was complete she was appointed as the Media & Communication Coordinator.
Senior Accounts Assistant
Mariaan was born and educated in Natal where she matriculated from at Greytown High School in 1985.
After a stint in the army, she moved into administration working for Nissan and Parmalat for a number of years. In 2007, when her husband moved to Vaalwater, she came to Welgevonden as senior admin and accounts assistant.
Operations Manager
Born in 1990 in Nelspruit Mdu completed his schooling years at Khutsalani School where he matriculated in 2009. Mdu developed an interest in conservation through his school years and became passionate about nature conservation with a dream of working in the field. This passion led to Mdu being appointed as the first student by the Southern African Wildlife College in Hoedspruit to do conservation guardianship. He graduated as the top student and was given a bursary to further his studies in Tshwane University of Technology. He chose a Diploma in Nature Conservation and completed his experiential training at Welgevonden Game Reserve.
His goal is to make a difference in the conservation industry with the ultimate goal of potentially specializing in water conservation in South Africa. Due to Mdu’s passion and dedication he was appointed Operations Officer after his practical year taking over the running of operations from the retiring Hennie Roets. Mdu is responsible for all road maintenance and water infrastructure and assists with conservation aspects of the reserve management.
Mdu is responsible for all general operations which includes road maintenance, water infrastructure, fuel provision, management of garden and refuse teams as well as assisting with conservation aspects of the reserve management.
Administration & Financial Assistant
Born and raised in Modimolle, Nicole completed her Matric in 2021 at Hoerskool Hans Strijdom in Mookgopong.
With a deep-rooted passion for nature and a love for numbers, Welgevonden provides her with the perfect platform to merge these two interests.
Biomonitoring Officer
Brittany was born in Cape Town and moved to the Eastern Cape at a young age, where she spent half of her childhood. For the other half, she lived with her family in rural West Africa, growing up amongst wild fauna and flora. Brittany attended international schools in Mali and Senegal and then matriculated in South Africa.
Upon finishing school, she moved to England where she spent a year studying Complementary Therapies. After becoming a qualified Masseuse, Reflexologist, and Aromatherapist, Brittany decided to move back to South Africa, where her heart belongs. Growing up in remote bushlands instilled in her a love for nature and wildlife, and so she decided to put her passions into action by obtaining an Advanced Diploma in Nature Conservation at Nelson Mandela University, George.
She completed her practical year at Kariega Game Reserve, and thereafter spent a year in the hospitality industry working in Lodge Management. Following her love of being in the field, Brittany then decided to move North to experience ‘real wilderness’ at Welgevonden, where she could hone her bush knowledge and skills, as well as actively contribute to conservation through data collection and environmental education. Brittany has a special interest in large mammal ethology and research, and enjoys travelling, baking, reading and general adventuring in her spare time.
Biomonitoring Officer
Margerie Aucamp was born on the 19th of March 1990 in Pretoria. Driven by her passion for wildlife, she went on to obtain a Diploma in Nature Management and later kick started her career at the Ann van Dyk Cheetah Centre. Hereafter, she went on to guide at Pilanesberg Game Reserve for three years where she realised her passion for scenic and wildlife photography.
Margerie joined the Welgevonden team in 2019 where she is employed as a volunteer research programme coordinator. She has a great passion for both nature and people, making this the perfect fit.
Conservation Manager
Armstrong was born in 1997 in Elim in Limpopo. He attended Mbokota Primary School in Limpopo and later Maruatona Primary School and Tlhapi Moruwe Middle School in Mooinooi, Northwest matriculating at Rakgatla High School. Armstrong has had a passion for nature and its functions since he was young and decided to study Nature Conservation when he was 16 years old.
In 2016, he enrolled for a National Diploma in Nature Conservation at Tshwane University of Technology. In 2018, Armstrong was selected as one of two students to do his Work Integrated Learning (WIL) at Welgevonden Game Reserve as the final step to completing his diploma. In 2019, He was appointed as a Conservation intern at Welgevonden for two years and he also enrolled for a Baccalaureus Technologiae (BTech) in Nature Conservation at Tshwane University of Technology.
In January 2021 Armstrong was appointed as the Conservation Officer at Welgevonden. He stood in as an Acting Conservation Manager from 1ST May 2021 to 16 August 2021 and from December 2021 to May 2022. In June 2022, Armstrong was appointed the Conservation Manager. Armstrong has a big interest in conservation management as well as the role of animals and birds within the environment.
Conservation Officer
Fredwin was born in Nuwerus and raised in Strandfontein, Western Cape. He Was intrigued by the Knysna forest and fell in love with nature. Fredwin first pursued IT as a career path and realized that IT was not meant for him. He decided after his IT career path that he wanted to gain as much experience as possible in the outside world. With his search, nature found him again.
He started his Nature Conservation studies at Nelson Mandela University George campus. Fredwin completed his Work Integrated Learning Year at Welgevonden Game Reserve. He is currently working as the Conservation Officer at Welgevonden Game Reserve. Fredwin want to leave behind a more sustainable environment that future generations can benefit from.
