As it was for the rest of the world, last year was a bit disrupted. During our training in 2020 we missed out on quite a few special activities during the global lockdown, but the one that we were most distraught about missing was the week spent with Ian Thomas.
Ian has long been part of the Londolozi family – not only because he is a cousin to Dave and John Varty but also because of his long service as a guide at Londolozi in the 80s and 90s. Ian is now famous for his master storytelling abilities and has stories that have you rolling on the floor laughing and entertained for hours – all gleaned over the many years he has been involved with Londolozi. Thankfully the Londolozi Head Ranger, James Souchon managed to coax Ian back to spend some good quality time with us.
The Trainees of 2020 (except for Kyle) And James Souchon.
When asking around the camp about what to expect while with Ian Thomas I kept getting the same answer, “Just enjoy the time with him, he is a fascinating and a lovely man “.
Ian knows Londolozi better than most. Being cousins with the Vartys he has had the privilege of coming to this special place since he was a young boy and eventually worked here as a guide. Ian still has a continuous impact on Londolozi to this day each time he visits.
The incredible trainers of the Lead Tracker course in South Africa, The Tracker Academy, and Ian. From Left: Ian Thomas, George Nkuna, Karel Benadie and Renias Mhlongo.
Our time with Ian started with an afternoon game drive into the northern parts of the reserve. Memories of our time as trainees came flooding back as we were now back in the hot seat, with the feeling that our every movement and every word was being scrutinized. This was, luckily, not the case at all as we arrived at the Manyeleti River for our first afternoon…all the nerves went straight out the window as Ian cracked the first of many jokes and set us all at ease.
A morning spent in my element; presenting poems or songs that we had prepared for the group
We got out of the vehicle and walked down into the river sand. Taking a seat in the shade of a Jackalberry, Ian asked us all to explain why we were at Londolozi and our journey getting here. He took a genuine interest in every story, seriously invested in each one – a theme that lasted the entire week. With the sun setting behind the steep banks of the river we found a suitable spot to light a fire. Regaling stories of the past around the fire that night it was evident- Ian really was exactly what everyone had made him out to be. I couldn’t help but get excited for the next day, knowing that we would get more time with him.
James, the master jaffle maker, keeping a close eye to ensure they were perfect.
There were many things that we did over the next couple of days, including eating Jaffles in the sand river, sharing artwork and poems with each other, and just having some good old genuine conversations in a place we have all grown to be strongly bonded to. The time that stood out for me most was sitting around a campfire in the Maxabene River singing. Anyone who knows me is well aware I’m not shy of singing a song or two or thirteen. The singing definitely made me smile from ear to ear but it was something more. It was the first time all of us trainees were together around a fire in the bush again, except for Kyle who was on leave. Laughing, joking, singing, and just being together again out there…It was truly a nostalgic moment and something I’ll hold close to me for a long time.
Kirst’s artwork – certainly leaps and bounds ahead of what I produced.
The time spent with Ian was simple and allowed for us to be ourselves at our most raw. It allowed us to come together again and laugh like we used to while training. I can’t thank Ian and James enough for making this happen.
Storytelling – an integral part of the Londolozi culture and being a Londolozi guide.
What I can tell you after this time with such a legendary storyteller is this… if given the opportunity to spend some quality time with Ian Thomas take it with arms wide open. It will definitely make an impact on your life.
Patrick, loved photos🤗
Patrick, Thanks for your story! It really must be fun to laugh and learn at the same time with Ian! Hope to run into him sometime on one of our visits!
Was unaware of James’s skill!
Fortunate opportunity for you!
Ahh, what a wonderful experience. Truly wish I could be there. His book “the Power of the Pride” is always in an arms reach.
Last time we met him (we were staying at JV) on game drive he was actually driving in his undies covered with mud. He saved an impala in the north which was stuck in the mud. Took some time to get it out.
Take care! Jos
Storytelling around a campfire and maybe gazing at the stars or just sitting somewhere in the bush together is certainly one of the best experiences one can have.
Better than any television program in the world.
Ian Thomas sounds like a wonderful man whose knowledge and experience added to his character. He definitely has touched many lives over the course of his life thus far and they have been blest.
Better auction off that stellar picture for elephant anti-poaching. I’ll start the bidding at $100 US.
What a wonderful experience! Nothing like true congeniality shared to create a lifetime of non-extinguishable good energy and memories. What so many long for, brings tears to my eyes while reading, taking in the joy of your story.
Oh to be the fly circling your group during Ian’s visit – what an experience for all of you to share stories, thoughts, art, and music, well songs anyway! Following up to that comment, Kirsten, your water color of the elephant pair is fantastic!! What a talent you possess.
Storytelling is definitely an art and anyone who is fortunate enough to listen to any is all the more rich for hearing them.
What a wonderful surprise to have Ian Thomas come and tell the most beautiful stories ever. You can just see by looking at him, he has lots to tell through all the years being on Londolozi. Down to earth and very interesting person. James I hope those jaffels were very delicious, it looked so inviting wish I had one of them know. Lovely blog Patrick, thank you.
There’s nothing like a sessioned character in any walk of life to listen to, recalling anecdotes from their past. What a great experience for you Patrick. Loved Jos Van Bommels account of their last meeting with Ian Thomas too 😂..he certainly sounds a great character and I endeavour to find his book ..The Power of the Pride. Thanks for sharing.
What is a jaffle? Sounds like it might be yummy, but maybe not…..
It is a toasted sandwich, made in a jaffle iron on the fire. They are delicious.
Thanks for sharing these special moments with Ian, Patrick!!