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Laura Gutknecht’s pursuit of becoming a Field Guide

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Laura Gutknecht on course with EcoTraining (c) Samantha Davies

Ever since I visited the African bush for the first time when I was 11 years old, I envisioned myself becoming a field guide and being able to share my knowledge and experiences about this magical place with others. When I did graduate from high school I planned to take a Gap Year in South Africa, upon which, I would return and begin my Biology studies at University. I was afforded the unique opportunity by the Lodge industry to work in the bush for 2 months as part of my Gap Year itinerary.

During those two months, I fell even more in love with the bush, so I decided that my last adventure would be the FGASA Field Guide Level 1 / NQF2 Course offered by EcoTraining. I enrolled and here I am, very happy and so excited about what will come from this magical experience. It still feels like a dream except for the fact that this dream is now finally becoming a reality.

I love the idea that I am living in the open wilderness for 2 months, being surrounded by beautiful nature and its wildlife, meeting like-minded people and being able to expand my knowledge about all aspects of the bush and learning about the role of a professional field guide.

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EcoTraining, which has been in operation since 1993, is the innovator and top provider of training for safari guides and wildlife experts in Africa.

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