WESSA is proud to welcome Bongani Chisale to the team as our new Biodiversity Protection Unit Ranger, based at uMngeni Valley Nature Reserve.
Bongani’s journey with WESSA began in 2016 as a student volunteer, and now, nearly a decade later, he joins the organisation as a skilled conservationist with extensive experience in fieldwork, community engagement, and biodiversity protection.
Holding an Advanced Diploma in Nature Conservation, Bongani has served in guiding roles at uMhlanga Lagoon and Hawaan Forest, managed invasive species clearing in Cape Town, and led marine education initiatives at the South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR). His qualifications include certifications in First Aid, Snake Handling, Veld Fire Management, and Invasive Plant Control.
“Nature is my medication to any illness,” says Bongani. “I’ve always believed in the healing power of the wild and in its ability to re-energise and inspire.”
His first-year goal is to help restore and protect the uMngeni Valley ecosystem while educating communities about the critical role of conservation.
“It’s not just about the work on the ground, it’s about helping people understand what we’re protecting, and why. Education is key to lasting impact.”
Bongani also brings valuable experience from his time patrolling coastal zones with Ezemvelo rangers, monitoring invasive threats, and mentoring youth as part of community-based anti-poaching initiatives.
For aspiring green professionals, Bongani offers simple but powerful advice:
“Get your boots dirty every day, volunteer, log every patrol, every snare, every talk. Data becomes your CV. Stay curious, stay humble, and remember: the rhino you save today might inspire the child who saves the planet tomorrow.”
We’re honoured to have Bongani on board and excited to see the impact he’ll make in protecting South Africa’s biodiversity and connecting people with nature.