Bushwise, South Africa’s leading field guide training provider, is proud to announce its independence from former partner organisation GVI. This change marks a pivotal moment in Bushwise’s trajectory as it continues to expand rapidly, following three years of substantial growth.
Since 2022, Bushwise has tripled in size, a testament to the success of its innovative programs and partnerships. As Bushwise embarks on this new chapter, we are poised to leverage fresh opportunities for growth and continue to develop world-class field guides.
Over the past three years, several key initiatives have highlighted Bushwise’s commitment to guiding excellence and community development. These groundbreaking initiatives reflect Bushwise’s commitment to growth, community empowerment, and the highest standards of training.
International Field Guide Association (IFGA): Bushwise has played a foundational role in the creation of the IFGA, which establishes elevated global standards for field guides. This new standard differentiates exceptional guides and positions Bushwise at the forefront of the field guide training industry worldwide.
Ranger Academy Model: In partnership with Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve, the first of our Academy Models provides fully-sponsored, world-class field guide training to local community members. This initiative will expand with additional partnerships and campuses in the coming months and years, providing further opportunities to the next guiding generation.
In collaboration with the Tourvest Group, Bushwise provides training to local students annually at our Mahlahla Campus in the Greater Makalali. Thanks to Tourvest's funding, these students receive a world-class guiding education at no cost. They may then secure positions at Tourvest Group lodges and with Mankwe Game Trackers, creating sustainable career paths within the hospitality and conservation sectors.
To support its ambitious vision, Bushwise has been acquired from GVI by a group of investors led by Andrew Valentine, Bushwise’s long-standing Chairman. Valentine has set a clear goal for Bushwise: to sustain the rapid growth of the past three years and propel the organisation toward even greater achievements in the future.
With this change in ownership, the Bushwise team remains unchanged, as does the strong working relationship between Bushwise and GVI. The companies will continue collaborating seamlessly while Bushwise charts its course for continued growth.
About Bushwise: Bushwise is the leading field guide training provider in South Africa. As the exclusive IFGA training provider in Southern Africa, Bushwise consistently produces world-class guides through its Cathsseta-accredited courses.
To enquire about partnerships: Eugene Relling, Director eugene@bushwise.co.za
Media contact: Annie DuPre annie.dupre@gviprograms.com
