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Bronwen Kelly is the reservations manager for Wildlife ACT’s Zululand projects. If you need more information about our volunteer programs, she’s the one to answer all of your pressing questions. Bronwen has lived in a variety of different Protected Areas and is currently situated on Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park - so she truly knows what she’s talking about when it comes to life in the bush!
I’m fortunate enough to live in beautiful Zululand, in the extremely isolated outpost in the extraordinary “Wilderness Section” of iMfolozi.
I started working for Wildlife ACT in 2010, and I'm proud to have played a small part in facilitating the incredible conservation impact that our organisation has made over the years, thanks to our loyal supporters far and wide!
I moved to the Zululand area in 2009 after completing my Post Graduate studies at the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Shortly after Wildlife ACT’s inception, I was approached by the founders who asked me if I would be interested in joining the team, handling the social media and reservations. Since then, I have managed the booking process for all the wonderful volunteers who have joined us to support our monitoring projects.
Conserving our endangered wildlife species is important because our planet’s biodiversity is the human race’s greatest asset and responsibility. It is our fundamental duty to protect it at all costs.
There is absolutely nothing like the wilderness. The concept and application of Wilderness Management is significantly different to the way the rest of the Protected Area is managed, from a conservation perspective. This area remains pristine and untouched, and the feeling of isolation and true wild appeals to me in the depths of my soul. I wouldn’t trade it for the world!
It is just too difficult to decide on a favourite animal, but, if pushed, I would have to say that Vultures and Hyaenas top my list!
I had a special experience many years ago when I was privileged enough to spend time with a Wild Dog pack in uMkhuze that had denned next to the road along a quiet management track. I will never forget the awe I felt at being able to spend time alone, watching those tiny pups play and interact.
My top bush living survival hack: a “quick” outing to check on or fetch something can sometimes turn into an all-day event! Always take enough water, and a bag with snacks and whatever else you need (sunscreen, camera, etc) - no matter how short a drive you think it may be.
To our supporters and followers, we genuinely need your support! If you are thinking of joining us, do it - you won’t regret it.
Read up about Zululand before your arrival – African Wild Dogs: On the Front Line by Brendan Whittington-Jones is an excellent read. Besides being an entertaining, heartfelt and honest story, it provides a great background to Zululand, as well as insight into the efforts and challenges surrounding Wild Dog conservation. Look out for mentions of Chris, one of Wildlife ACT’s founders!
Don’t hesitate to reach out to Bronwen if you’d like to know more about our volunteer projects in Zululand.
