Josh hopes that his story won’t just inspire other young people who are working towards their own dreams but believes that he can use what he will learn to inform his generation about the importance of conserving the natural world.
Kruger National Park, South Africa (13 June 2022) – Josh Aveley didn’t know it at the time, but on 25 April 2022, his life was about to change, and a childhood dream was about to come true.
After begging his father to take him along on a work trip to the Kruger National Park, 20-year-old Joshua managed to secure himself a ticket into the wild by assisting his dad as a videographer during a custom EcoQuest course with EcoTraining.
“I just couldn’t miss out on a trip to the bush. I helped by taking videos, photos and honestly, I just jumped in and started helping with everything. I set tables, served drinks, and helped all the guests,” said Aveley.
Growing up in Knysna, Josh admits he has never been much of a surfer or lover of the coast.
Regular family trips to the Kruger National Park kindled his passion for the bush and birthed his dream of one day becoming a game ranger.
“I’ve grown up in Kruger as we visited the park almost every year until I was 14 years old. I really want to share Africa with people, it is a magical place, and everyone should experience it at least once,” said Aveley.
The EcoQuest course was attended by participants visiting from the United States. The group was impressed with young Josh’s knowledge about wild animals but more so with his understanding of the natural environment.
“I explained small things to them, like how the apple leaf tree got its name. When the leaves of the tree are crushed, it sounds like someone is biting into an apple,” said Aveley.
When Josh returned home, he was surprised to learn that Elaine Bylos from Jet Sail Explore, the group’s travel agent, had decided to fund a 55-day Field Guide Course with EcoTraining for him, so that he could finally realise his dream of working in the Kruger National Park.
“I was speechless and very grateful for the opportunity. I don’t know what to say to Elaine for helping me, there really isn’t much more that can make me happier, said Aveley.
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The course will allow Josh to get an in-depth experience of the African bush guided by professionals who will help him learn more about the various fauna and flora and animals.
“We are very proud of the people we work with daily. For Josh to receive such a sponsorship from one of our clients is an incredible opportunity that does not come along every day. By showing true character and hard work, Josh has set an example for many youngsters out there,” said EcoTraining Marketing Manager, Annemi Zaaiman.
Josh hopes that his story won’t just inspire other young people who are working towards their own dreams but believes that he can use what he will learn to inform his generation about the importance of conserving the natural world.
“My generation is so obsessed with material things, and they are looking at life through a screen. I think people who haven’t been exposed to the wild are missing out! We all really need to disconnect so that we can reconnect with what the world is. There is just no point in trying to ignore the planet’s issues, we need to try and protect the planet now, “said Aveley.
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