Celebrating the phenomenal women of Wilderness

We are proud to recognise nine formidable colleagues whose leadership, kindness, and resilience remind us how meaningful impact happens every day. Through their daily actions, they help create a workplace where people feel valued, supported, and inspired. We celebrate the real actions behind them – the Wilderness values lived, not listed.

To every woman in Wilderness, thank you for the countless seen and unseen ways you shape our culture, our teams, and our future.

What is one small action you take in your role that positively impacts others?

The Travel Shop has a wide scope and touches most departments in the organisation. As manager of the Travel Shop, I make it a point to greet every colleague with genuine curiosity about their day – a small act of listening with undivided attention, whether it is about a guest's safari experience, a teammate’s personal milestone, or even life’s frustrations. This creates a ripple effect of positivity. It reminds people that they are seen, valued and part of something bigger than themselves, despite their position in the business. I have learnt to be humble.

What makes working for Wilderness meaningful to you, and why do you value being part of our team?

Working for Wilderness feels like being part of a live conservation story. Every day, I see how our team’s passion translates into unforgettable journeys for guests, and meaningful impact for communities. I enjoy being surrounded by people who share the same vision of protecting Africa’s wild places while creating experiences that touch hearts. This gives me peace because I know we are helping to preserve our land for future generations. From all our eight regions, it is fulfilling to see my colleagues thirsty to understand the East Africa circuit of our business, asking questions on Teams chats and showing an eagerness to learn. This has led me to gain friends who are also my colleagues, and learn about different cultures and countries.

Did you know…

I used to do lots of hiking. While at the foot of Mount Kenya, roughly 3,000m above sea level, as we started our climb, we saw a baby elephant trapped. We called the rangers who found out it was hurt, and they transferred it to a facility for treatment. We saved an elephant. This taught me patience, respect for nature, and the thrill of being fully present in the wild. That experience still shapes how I approach challenges – quiet observation often reveals the best path forward.

What is one small action you take in your role that positively impacts others?

I prioritise active listening and clarity. When a team member brings a challenge to me, I don't just provide the answer; I ask questions to help them reach the solution themselves. This small shift from giving orders to coaching empowers others to feel more confident in their own decision-making, which strengthens the whole team’s output.

What makes working for Wilderness meaningful to you, and why do you value being part of our team?

Working for Wilderness allows me to be part of a larger purpose, protecting pristine ecosystems while delivering world-class hospitality to guests. Being part of this team means working with people who are equally committed to business success and environmental guardianship.

Did you know…

I’ve visited all regions of Tanzania, which has given me a deep appreciation for our country's diverse cultures.

What is one small action you take in your role that positively impacts others?

I am always dedicated and go the extra mile in my daily job.

What makes working for Wilderness meaningful to you, and why do you value being part of our team?

I have worked for Wilderness for more than 10 years. It's been a great journey working for this big company, which has a heart for its people. Always taking good care of our daily needs and keeping us safe. I enjoy being part of the winning team because we work as one team and always provide support to one another.

Did you know…

I have been with Wilderness for more than 10 years as a Housekeeper. Wilderness has played a big role in my journey, I have completed courses in housekeeping, which helped me improve my career. During my off-seasons, I spend time at the farm, and I run a small business. 

What is one small action you take in your role that positively impacts others?

I try to make time to connect with people every day in the office. Whether it's a quick conversation, asking how someone is doing or offering advice on quotes. 

What makes working for Wilderness meaningful to you, and why do you value being part of our team?

Being part of a team that is both supportive and forward-thinking makes the work energising. It feels purposeful, progressive, and rooted in a shared commitment to making a meaningful impact. 

Did you know…

I am obsessed with dogs and will often greet the dog in the room before the human! 

What is one small action you take in your role that positively impacts others?

One small but intentional action I take is making time to listen. 

What makes working for Wilderness meaningful to you, and why do you value being part of our team?

I enjoy working for Wilderness because of the shared commitment to making a meaningful impact, which includes giving back to the community by hiring directly from its members, the CITW programme (my favourite), promoting biodiversity conservation and my amazing colleagues.

Did you know…

I can sing!

What is one small action you take in your role that positively impacts others?

Talking it through! Anyone who works closely with me knows that emails are not my love language. A quick call to hash out ideas, solve a problem, or get aligned goes so much further than a long back-and-forth email war. It saves time, keeps things human, and honestly, we get to better answers faster.

What makes working for Wilderness meaningful to you, and why do you value being part of our team?

Wilderness offers something rare, a sense of purpose that goes beyond business. I love being part of a team that is deeply passionate about conservation, experiences, and people. From Mama Mavis holding me accountable when I’ve reached my coffee limit for the day, to Margaret’s ear-to-ear smile first thing in the morning. Our people are infectious! The collaboration, the energy, and the shared commitment to doing things make every challenge worthwhile. It’s inspiring to work with colleagues who genuinely care about each other and who bring their whole selves to the mission.

Did you know…

I take the board game 30 Seconds a little too seriously. I’m the person who talks with my hands, gets overly excited about random trivia, and celebrates like I’ve won a championship when my team gets it right. It’s all in good fun – but yes, I definitely play to win.

What is one small action you take in your role that positively impacts others?

One small but important action I take is consistently acknowledging and appreciating my team’s efforts. Whether it’s a simple word of encouragement or hands-on support during busy times, I believe that feeling seen and valued motivates people to give their best. When the team feels supported, it naturally reflects in the guest experience.

What makes working for Wilderness meaningful to you, and why do you value being part of our team?

I have been with Wilderness for 9 years. What I love most is the opportunity for growth and the strong sense of teamwork. Wilderness empowers women, supports development, and creates an environment where passion and dedication are recognised. Being part of a team that is committed to excellence, sustainability, and meaningful guest experiences makes me proud every day.

Did you know…

When I first joined Wilderness, I started as a Massage Therapist. Today I am proud to be one of the women who has grown within the Wilderness family, now serving as a Lodge Manager at King’s Pool. This journey has shaped me not only as a professional, but as a woman and a leader. It is a reminder that women are capable of stepping confidently into leadership roles. At Wilderness, support and opportunity truly make the difference, and I am proud to be part of a company that believes in growth.

What is one small action you take in your role that positively impacts others?

Remaining authentic. l believe it helps me ensure that my work and our team’s work ethic are always in the best interest of the organisation’s values.

What makes working for Wilderness meaningful to you, and why do you value being part of our team?

Wilderness’ support system from all teams, top to bottom, is amazing. That has made it easy to show up at work every day. Through the mutual respect we share, l have seen myself excel and move quicker up my career than l had imagined when l first started. I enjoy being a part of this team because as l see the company grow l know all of our efforts are showing off. We are winners in a winning organisation and it’s such a great feeling to be a winner in the hospitality industry. 

Did you know…

I represent an example of the Bantu migration, third family generation in Zimbabwe. l have Zambian and Mozambican paternal roots. Still figuring out what that makes me!

What is one small action you take in your role that positively impacts others?

I make time to listen truly and to care. Even simple conversations can make someone feel seen and supported. Across the camps, many colleagues jokingly call me Dr Lizelle, because I take pride in helping with medical care whenever it’s needed. I never hesitate to assist or reassure. For me, leadership is not only about guidance, it’s also being present for people when they need you most.

What makes working for Wilderness meaningful to you, and why do you value being part of our team?

Wilderness connects purpose, people and nature in a meaningful way. Being in remote camps constantly reminds me why conservation matters and why responsible tourism makes a difference. I’m proud to be part of a team that values both the environment and community, while also creating space for personal growth and leadership.

Did you know…

I feel most at home under an open sky. Whether I’m in camp or back in my village farming, I’m happiest outdoors, watching birds, identifying constellations, and feeling connected to the land. Nature isn’t just where I work, it’s who I am.