Recently honoured by the Limpopo Economic Development, Environment & Tourism (LEDET) department, Tshepo Loni is a rising star among South Africa’s new generation of safari guides.
A FGASA-qualified professional at Mabula Private Game Reserve, Loni was selected to represent the guiding industry at the National Tourism Careers Expo (NTCE) in 2024.
“[Hosting] the NTCE, we need a passionate representative for tourist guides, and Tshepo fits the bill perfectly,” says Ms. Vukosi G. Ratshipaladza of LEDET’ Tourist Guides Registration and Compliance team.
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Loni’s national recognition came after officials witnessed his outstanding performance during a guided tour, where his expansive knowledge and knack for storytelling left a lasting impression.
But behind this success lies a remarkable story of transformation.
Born in Bela-Bela, Tshepo’s journey to becoming a respected guide began when the Mabula guide training program offered him a lifeline. Loni’s fate changed when he set foot in the bush.
“I’m a local boy,” he shares. “They took me off the streets and out of the clutches of bad things.”
The program, which annually empowers local youth with comprehensive training and career opportunities, provided Tshepo with the qualifications and purpose to find his ultimate passion in nature. Now a field guide with FGASA qualifications and a proud graduate of the Mabula guide training program, his love for learning is infectious.
“This wasn’t an easy journey, but now I’m passionate about nature and the heritage we leave behind for the future generations. I never stop learning.”
In a world where authentic experiences matter more than ever, Loni proves that with the right opportunity and dedication, it’s possible to transform not just one’s own life, but the way visitors experience the magic of the bush.
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