When I first joined Nature’s Valley Trust, I didn’t know what kind of programmes I was going to engage in. The most exciting part was to work for an organisation that deals with environmental issues the good part been situated along the coastal areas.
Matome commenting during MCEN conference in Mossel Bay.
Lesson plans
At first I didn’t know how to design lesson plans for the different activities, even though there were some well organised examples of different activities in the office. I feel honoured to have given such a privilege to design lesson plans for the activities that I have a major responsibility for. The environmental education work brings new challenges, experience and great knowledge to be shared with the community.
Matome giving a recycling lesson to learners of Kranshoek Primary School
Teaching kids
The most exciting part was to teach the kids about the concepts of various environmental programmes to ensure that the environment is conserved. It was the first time I came across adopt a beach and river programmes, whereby the importance of macro-invertebrates are taught and the quality of our coast are known with different impacts of human activities on the coastal areas. It was quite a challenge in terms of language barrier, because I don’t understand Afrikaans.
Matome giving a powerpoint presentation on biodiversity to learners of Plettenberg Bay Secondary School.
Different organisations
Working with different stakeholder’s shows how important the Nature’s Valley Trust is, and how it is considered as one of the best environmental organizations in South Africa. Through going to different meetings I have developed better communication skills and professional friendships with people from different stakeholders. It was great to see that the Nature’s Valley Trust is highly recognised.
Minke showing Matome how to take a bird of the net.
Birds ringing
It was wonderful learning how important birds are on our planet, back at home I never heard about the so called birds ringing, but have realised how crucial it is to ring birds, however it was incredibly rewarding to familiarised myself with various birds on the western fynbos.
I wish NVT all the best in the future and hope that they can continue their good work and I really gained a lot of experience thanks to the team.
Cindy giving Matome a farewell gift.
Final word from Mark:
Matome added immense value in the 12 months he was with NVT. He embraced the opportunity to grow, both personally and professionally, and epitomises what the NRF internship year is all about. We wish him well in his future endeavors, and look forward to seeing his successes to come!