I hail from the heart of South Africa, where my deep-rooted love for wildlife and nature was nurtured on my grandparents’ enchanting game farm, Savannah, near Marble Hall. Today, I serve as a Veterinary Nurse at the Bergview Veterinary Hospital in Hermanus, Western Cape, South Africa.
In February 2023, I embarked on an extraordinary journey to Nepal, made possible by the generous Nature Conservation and Photography Fellowship from the Gehendra Dhimal Foundation. This is the story of my voyage — a tale of discovery, gratitude, and enduring hope.
Kathmandu to Savannah
My expedition began in the vibrant city of Kathmandu, where ancient temples whispered tales of centuries past. Surrounded by the aroma of momos and the rhythm of a bustling city, I was introduced to my mentors for the fellowship — Gautam Dhimal and Om Prakash Yadav. Both are not only celebrated photographers but also passionate conservationists.
Their unwavering dedication to preserving nature, combined with their exceptional photographic talent, imbued every moment of my journey with purpose and inspiration.
Pinnacle of Journey
As I cruised along the serene Koshi River, which gracefully winds its way through the heart of Koshi Tappu, Nepal’s largest, I was treated to encounters with magnificent avian creatures and a rare sighting of the endangered Ganges River dolphin. This poignant moment encapsulated the conservation efforts that had become the defining theme of my journey. In Chitwan National Park, I realized a lifelong dream — an encounter with the elusive Sloth bear. Guided by passionate conservationists, I gained invaluable insights into the success of a tiger conservation program, one that had effectively curbed conflicts and poaching while significantly boosting the tiger population.
The remarkable work undertaken at the Jatayu Vulture Restaurant deeply resonated with me. It served as a sanctuary for aging cows, whose remains provided sustenance for vultures, thus contributing to the revival of dwindling vulture populations and transforming local perceptions. Lumbini, the sacred birthplace of Buddha, offered a unique opportunity to immerse myself in the world of Buddhist monks at the Thai Monastery. I explored sacred ruins, gaining profound insights into the history and spirituality that define Nepal. My journey continued to Pokhara, the gateway to the Himalayas, where I reveled in awe-inspiring mountain vistas and indulged in culinary delights. A mesmerizing mountain flight allowed me to pay home age to the legendary Mount Everest, a bucket-list experience that left an indelible mark on my soul.
The pinnacle of my journey arrived on a perfect day—a harmonious blend of experiences that encapsulated the essence of my entire adventure. From the early morning mountain flight to bird-watching expeditions in lush forests, and a delightful surprise ride on the Kathmandu Valley cable car at Chandragiri, it was a day brimming with wonder and gratitude.
