We are beginning to witness first-hand how the collaborative power of community and conservation can create lasting change and make a positive difference. This is taking shape through our Conservation Internship Programme (CIP). The initiative offers youth from the nearby Witteklip community the opportunity to work, learn, and develop skills on the Wildflower Reserve.

The CIP was born from a simple yet powerful idea: combine hands-on experience with professional development in conservation, botany, and eco-tourism.

Interns are introduced to the practical side of conservation, immersing themselves in the Reserve’s ecosystem and learning from experts, while also gaining formal qualifications that equip them for the future. The beauty of this programme lies in its holistic approach, blending the wisdom of nature with the knowledge of experts to, create well-rounded conservationists who can make a difference.

One of many stories emerging from this programme is that of Siphokazi “Siphs” Mtengwana. She joined FOVS in September 2022 as part of our first Conservation Intern cohort, and from the very beginning, her passion and leadership shone through. Her growth has been nothing short of remarkable. The first full-time employee since 1 July 2024, Siphs has taken on the role of FOVS Supervisor. She is now leading FOVS’ conservation efforts and programmes with a heart filled with determination and purpose.

Her journey is a testament to the power of mentorship, opportunity, and hard work, as she continues to
pave the way for others.

“I am proud of the work that I am doing. I feel connected to nature and have a deep sense of purpose with the contribution I am making as a women in my community as well as helping to make a difference in protecting our environment.” FOVS Supervisor, Siphs Mtengwana

Another story is of another young lady named Siyamthanda “Siya” Ndotshayisa.

Her story also began in September 2022 and, as of 1 January 2025, Siya stepped into the role of FOVS Superintendent; becoming the second full-time employee from the CIP. Like Siphs, Siya has embraced every learning opportunity with enthusiasm. These two women represent the future of conservation, not just within the Reserve but in the broader Witteklip community too.

Their achievements are especially significant in a field where women are typically under-represented. Siphs and Siya are breaking down barriers and showing that women can—and should—play a central role in conservation efforts. Their impact extends far beyond the Wildflower Reserve. They are becoming role models for other young women, inspiring them to consider careers in conservation and helping to strengthen efforts to protect and sustain the environment.

The Intern Journey

Navigating the CIP not only earns the intern formal qualifications such as First Aid certification and Barista training, but encourages the intern to take on entrepreneurship roles too; guiding visitors and school groups on “story-telling walks” through the fynbos and forest, and operating the Flower House shop. These services have become integral to the day-to- day conservation work of the Reserve, and to the visitor experience.

As we celebrate their success, we also look forward to the future. In September 2024, we welcomed two bright young women from the Witteklip community into the programme: Annastacia “Stacey” Bailey (22) and Chaney Witbooi (19). Silindo Ndotshayisa joined FOVS in early December 2024, followed by Busi Dyantjies (23) and Nkosinathi “Nkosi” Jokani (26) in February 2025. Over the next 24 months, these five interns will continue the cycle of growth, learning, and transformation alongside FOVS, the NMBM Reserve staff and visiting experts in botany, geology, hospitality, and eco-tourism.

The impact of the CIP is clear: it’s not just about conserving the biodiversity of the Reserve we love but about creating opportunities for the people who call it home. It is about forging a future where nature and people thrive together at the point where eco-systems and economics meet; proving that change is possible, and that when we partner with the land and each other, we can build a sustainable tomorrow—one step, one story, and one person at a time.

These milestones embody FOVS’ mission to create, through partnership and inclusion, impactful conservation that not only protects our wild spaces but also uplifts local communities.

Stay tuned on our social media pages for more updates as we follow their journeys!