By Emily Setona
GOLDEN GATE – A group of high school learners from Soweto and Clarens gathered under the majestic sandstone cliffs of Golden Gate Highlands National Park for an experience that sparked curiosity, inspired new career ambitions, and created lasting friendships.
Hosted by SANParks’ Socio-Economic Transformation (SET) department, the workshop held on 5 August, gave learners a rare opportunity to explore the environmental sector and learn from professionals working in conservation, tourism, and park management. But for many, it was the personal growth and exposure to the unknown that stood out.
Thandekile Majingo, a teacher from Moriting wa Thuto S.S.S. in Clarens, who teaches Tourism and Life Orientation to Grades 10 and 11, said the experience was not only informative but transformative.
“This was a wonderful experience because it exposed the learners to things they didn’t know. The career workshop was eye-opening. Everyone who was present enjoyed being here together – the learners from Soweto and our learners from Clarens got along. It was like we were all family,” she said.
Jobo Sefako, a Grade 11 learner from Moriting, said he walked away from the workshop changed.“I learned new things I didn’t know about and would like to thank the organisers. I was nervous coming here, but after some time I adapted. I had a great experience and cannot express my feelings enough,” he said. “Golden Gate is a wonderful place to visit and to work at.”
For Bonokwakhe Dlamini, a Grade 12 learner from Phefeni Secondary School in Soweto, the decision to attend wasn’t easy.
“I was a bit concerned about coming here instead of preparing for prelims,” he admitted. “But this experience exceeded my expectations. It was eye-opening and something I would not miss for the world. I learned a lot about careers in the environmental sector. When I choose my career, I will definitely consider what I’ve learned here.”
Zamo Ntini, also in Grade 11 from Soweto, said the trip helped her understand what career paths suit her personality.
“I’d prefer a career in HR because I like the idea of being in the office and not having to deal with people all the time,” she said. “I enjoyed my experience. I’m a little bit shy, so I wouldn’t want to be a ranger. I’d like to do something in HR because then I’d only have to work with people when really necessary.”
Katlego Morulane, Communications Manager at SANParks, welcomed the learners and explained her role in managing internal communications. She introduced colleagues who shared insights about their paths and responsibilities in the park. One of them, Maduvhahafani Matodzi, gave heartfelt advice based on her journey from a love of geography to a fulfilling career in conservation.
“Don’t choose a career based on peer pressure or to follow your friends,” she warned. “You come from different families and different financial realities. Also, don’t choose a career just to please your parents. Choose wisely – you’ll be doing this for the rest of your life.”
She reminded learners that SANParks’ primary mandate is conservation, with tourism as a secondary function, and encouraged them not to fear starting at the bottom.
“There are many professions in national parks. Don’t be afraid to start from lowly professions and work your way up.”
Beyond the classroom-style learning, the workshop included thrilling activities that pushed learners beyond their comfort zones. Abseiling, horse riding, and interactive sessions helped them connect with nature in ways they never had before.
The experience was more than a workshop – it was an invitation to dream beyond limits, to understand the depth and breadth of environmental careers, and to find their own path in preserving nature for future generations.
