Tracking is an ancient skill, rooted in Africa’s history. For thousands of years, it was a survival technique. Tracking enabled communities to track wildlife for food and navigate the landscapes they called home. Over time, tracking evolved, becoming not only a tool for survival but a highly respected specialised craft. Today, it plays a critical role in eco-tourism, conservation, and the protection of endangered species.

At Londolozi, this ancient practice is celebrated daily. As one of the founding partners of the Tracker Academy, we’ve witnessed how tracking not only connects us to Africa’s wild heritage but also holds the power to transform lives. This year, a new chapter began in our story with the employment of Tsundzukani Whati, Londolozi’s first female tracker, and the first in the industry. Her journey, shaped by her training at Tracker Academy, is a beacon of what is possible when passion, dedication, and opportunity align.

Shaping a New Narrative

Tracking has long been seen as a male-dominated field, but the Tracker Academy is rewriting this narrative.

At Tracker Academy, we’ve seen firsthand that traditional tracking skills can be learnt by anyone with focus and dedication. Tracking doesn’t rely on physical strength, but rather on sharp attention to detail and a deep understanding of the natural environment. In fact, we’ve had female students consistently rank in the top 10% of their class. One of our recent graduates, Tsundzukani Whati, is a prime example. She completed her training at Tracker Academy and was employed by Londolozi, where she is thriving in her role as a tracker. One of the key attributes we often see in our female tracker students is their ability to focus on small, subtle details—an essential quality for a successful tracker. This attention to detail is what helps them excel in the field. We’re incredibly proud of the contributions these women are making, and we want to see even more women take up the challenge. ~ Alex van den Heever, Tracker Academy co-founder

A Step Towards Inclusivity

Building on this success, the Tracker Academy is launching a groundbreaking ladies-only Lodge Tracker Programme set to begin in January 2025.

This initiative will create a supportive environment where female students can thrive. Research has shown that young women often achieve better academic results in women-only environments compared to mixed-gender settings, where young men tend to outperform. The programme aims to empower more women to embrace tracking, break stereotypes, and lead the way in conservation. We believe this programme will empower more women to break the narrative that tracking is a male-dominated field. The truth is, women can and do excel at tracking. This ladies-only initiative is just the beginning of what we hope will be a movement to shift perceptions and empower more women to become professional trackers ~ Alex van den Heever

At Londolozi, we’re thrilled to see this momentum grow. Our commitment to fostering female trackers aligns with our vision of inclusivity and conservation leadership. It’s about more than just filling roles—it’s about creating a future where everyone has a voice in protecting Africa’s wild spaces.

Supporting the Next Generation of Trackers

In January 2025, we will announce the names of the successful candidates selected for the ladies-only Lodge Tracker course. We invite you to support these incredible young women by helping fund their training. Every tracker we train is a step forward in protecting Africa’s wildlife, and you can be part of their journey. Our donors will receive regular updates on the progress of their sponsored students. This includes news on their training, graduation, and eventual employment in the eco-tourism industry. Together, we can change the face of tracking, providing opportunities for young women to lead the way in wildlife conservation ~ Alex van den Heever

A New Chapter for Tracking and Conservation

The ancient art of tracking has always been about connection—connection to the land, to its creatures, and to the people who share this heritage. Today, it’s also about creating opportunities, breaking barriers, and reimagining what’s possible.

With initiatives like the ladies-only Lodge Tracker Programme and trailblazers like Tsundzukani Whati leading the way, the future of tracking is bright—and inclusive. Together, we can honour Africa’s wild legacy and shape a more inclusive future for conservation.

How to Contribute

• If you would like some more detailed, one-on-one information, or if you would like to make a donation to the Londolozi Ripple Fund and start your own ripple effect, please reach out to us at ripple@londolozi.co.za
• Donate to the preservation of ancient knowledge and the creation of safe havens for iconic species like the rhino with Tracker Academy and Rhino Guardians  (use the #Londolozi in the subject line)

Stay in the Ripple

To stay connected, we have established a Londolozi Ripple Fund Impact site as well as a Ripple Fund Instagram page where you can follow regular updates on projects and donations as they unfold and follow work that has already been successfully completed. If you would like to receive the Londolozi Ripple Fund Impact newsletter, please let us know on ripple@londolozi.co.za