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WILDTRUST Career Expo Inspires Learners on World Environment Day

As the world marked World Environment Day, WILDTRUST celebrated the occasion by empowering young people with knowledge and opportunities for the future through its week-long Career Expo.

The expo provided Grade 9 and matric learners with valuable insights into a wide range of career opportunities, while also highlighting the important role that education and skills development play in building sustainable communities and protecting the environment.

Bringing together professionals from various sectors and government departments, the expo enabled learners to explore potential career paths, educational requirements, essential skills, and future growth opportunities across different industries.

Facilitated by Wendy Dunn of WILDTRUST, the initiative reached learners from eight schools within the iSimangaliso Marine Protected Area (MPA) Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) Project communities across northern KwaZulu-Natal. The programme began at the Hlomula Community Hall, continued at the Mabibi Community Resource Hub, and concluded today at the KwaSokhulu Community Hall.

Speaking to learners at the Mabibi Community Resource Hub, Dr. December Mpanza, Head of Occupational Therapy at University of KwaZulu-Natal, reflected on the importance of the initiative. Having attended one of the schools represented at the expo, Dr. Mpanza noted that opportunities such as career expos were not readily available to many learners during his school years.

Learners also expressed their appreciation for the programme.

“We’re very thankful to WILDTRUST for this opportunity. We are far more informed now than when we arrived. We know more about our career choices, and we hope you continue organising such events for other learners,” said Fanelesibonge Mlaba from Langelihle High School.

The initiative was made possible through funding from the Blue Action Fund.

ezemvelokznwildlife Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment

IN THE NEWS: Innovative solutions for shark conservation is currently on display at uShaka Marine World

The newly launched Shark Exhibition showcases groundbreaking, non-lethal solutions designed to reduce shark-related risks and marks a significant step toward ensuring the safety of both people and sharks while safeguarding marine ecosystems.

“We were the first country to protect the white shark and now, more than ever, South Africa has the opportunity and responsibility to lead once again in shark and ray conservation.” - WILDTRUST’s Senior Scientist, Dr Jennifer Olbers.

Read full article via IOL: https://iol.co.za/news/south-africa/kwazulu-natal/2025-07-29-innovative-solutions-for-shark-conservation-at-ushaka-marine-world/

Image credit: Mnqobi Zuma | WILDOCEANS

uShaka Marine World Shark Spotters Justice 4 Jaws Shark Spotters SAAMBR Shark Conservation Fund

On World Environment Day, we’re reminded that protecting our environment includes protecting our waters that sustain both people and wildlife.

Illegal gillnetting in South Africa’s estuaries, coastal, and inland waters has become a significant threat to biodiversity, including sharks, linefish, and birds, as well as the safety of water users like paddlers and swimmers.

Stay tuned… something’s coming.

Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment South African Police Service Ocean Impact

Today, we proudly launch the second edition of our Gender Success Stories series spotlighting the extraordinary women of the uThukela MPA and neighbouring communities who are building resilient households and sustainable livelihoods.

We begin with Sindi Mjadu, whose story shows how simple, practical innovations like the Wonderbag can save time, reduce energy use, and support everyday resilience within the home.

Her full story goes live next Tuesday.

Made possible through funding made available by the Blue Action Fund

The Ocean and Awareness team of the uThukela Marine Protected Area (MPA) Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) project, funded by the Blue Action Fund, recently hosted its first Teachers’ Workshop at Gingindlovu Hall, bringing together educators from 13 participating schools.

Led by Dudu Vilane from WILDTRUST, the workshop introduced teachers to the work of the Ocean and Awareness team while giving them firsthand experience of the interactive educational activities presented to learners. The sessions are designed to make marine and environmental education engaging, accessible, and easy to understand for learners of all ages.

Educators also had the opportunity to meet Harry the Hammerhead Shark alongside author and WILDTRUST Project Manager Nikki Chapman, who shared how the book has become an important educational tool for teaching learners about marine conservation, ocean ecosystems, and the importance of protecting marine life.

Reflecting on the workshop, Ms. Lavinia Dlamini from Sakhesethu Primary School said, “I was not aware of the Coelacanth and what kind of fish it is, as well as the importance of coral reefs. Everything was so interesting. Getting to understand that some of the things we overlook actually matter and are important.”

ezemvelokznwildlife Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment

In an effort to support vulnerable women and children in northern KwaZulu-Natal, WILDTRUST, recently hosted a health outreach session at the KwaDapha Community Resource Hub, for mothers and children aged 0–5 years. The visit was led by guest medical doctor, Dr Sue Harris alongside Nomusa Nxumalo, WILDTRUST's Project Manager supporting women and children.

Dr Sue Harris highlighted the importance of regular health check-ups during early childhood, as this is a critical stage of development. Each child received a basic health assessment, including height, weight, and heart rate checks to monitor their overall well-being.

Nxumalo facilitated communication between the mothers and Dr. Sue, ensuring that every child felt welcome and comfortable. The children were also treated to sweets and toys, bringing smiles and warmth to the day.

This initiative is part of a broader effort to support women and children by improving access to healthcare and creating safe community spaces within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park World Heritage Site. The programme is supported by the iSimangaliso Marine Protected Area (MPA) Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) Project funded by Blue Action Fund and co-funded by The Light Foundation.

iSimangaliso Wetland Park ezemvelokznwildlife Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment

WILDTRUST, a South African not-for-profit, public benefit, non-governmental organisation, seeks qualified candidates to apply for the following position:

Linefish Monitor – Nyembe (X2)
Linefish Monitor – Nqutshini (X1)

Applicants for this position must reside within the uThukela MPA project areas, specifically the Nyembe or Nqutshini communities. Preference will be given to suitably qualified and experienced candidates from these communities.

TO APPLY:
Applicants who meet the requirements must submit an application letter (in English or in isiZulu) motivating (i) why they should be considered for the position, (ii) include their full name (first name and surname), ID number, the area where they live, and a telephone number where they can be contacted in your letter.

(iii) In your letter, please indicate if you have been a monitor previously, and any previous work experience you have. (iv) Submit a letter from iNduna as proof of being a resident of Nyembe Community.

For any queries, contact: Sikhumbuzo Mkhwanazi (Community Co-Management Facilitator) – 082 800 9435.

Submission of application: You can drop off your application at the Nyembe and Nqutshini Hub or email it to [email protected].

Closing Date: 05 June 2026

For more information:
https://www.wildtrust.co.za/vacancies

Last week, WILDTRUST hosted a Climate-smart Cooking Demonstration, led by the uThukela Marine Protected Area (MPA) Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) Project in the Nqutshini Area under the Macambini Traditional Authority.

The event aimed to equip the community with the knowledge, skills, and tools to conserve energy and water, promote healthy cooking and organic farming. WILDTRUST’s Nokuthula Mdletshe explained the benefits of using energy-efficient cooking methods, noting that they save money and reduce environmental damage.

Mary Basson from Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, discussed the benefits of energy-efficient cooking and key fire safety practices. She shared suitable firewood options the community could use for energy-efficient cooking methods. The event was also joined by the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health who discussed the importance of eating healthy.

The event concluded with community members participating in a prize draw. Lucky community members got the chance to walk away with various prizes to support energy-efficient cooking.

This initiative was made possible through the support of the Blue Action Fund.

ezemvelokznwildlife Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment National Department of Health (South Africa)

WILDTRUST, a South African not-for-profit, public benefit, non-governmental organisation, seeks qualified candidates to apply for the following position:

Senior Project Manager - iSimangaliso Marine Protected Areas (MPA) Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) Project

The successful candidate’s responsibilities will include but are not limited to project management, coordination of project activities in accordance with time-bound workplans, staff and budget management, monitoring and evaluation, financial and narrative progress reporting, liaison with project partners (government and NGOs), sub-grantees and sub-contractors, researchers and stakeholders.

To Apply:
Submit a covering letter with a 2/3 page CV, and at least 3 references to [email protected] by 4 June 2026.

Short-listed candidates must be available for interviews on 9 & 10 June 2026.

For more information:
https://www.wildtrust.co.za/vacancies

Today, the WILDOCEANS programme of the WILDTRUST, celebrates the International Day for Biological Diversity under this year’s theme, “Acting Locally for Global Impact,” by recognising the importance of healthy oceans, estuaries, and coastal ecosystems that sustain an extraordinary diversity of marine life. From kelp forests and mangroves to turtles, sharks, rays, and countless fish species, ocean biodiversity is essential for supporting livelihoods, maintaining ecosystem balance, and sustaining life on Earth.

Through scientific research, conservation initiatives, and support for Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), the programme works alongside scientists, conservationists, and local communities to protect and restore marine biodiversity. The WILDOCEANS programme focuses on expanding marine conservation efforts, safeguarding endangered species, promoting sustainable ocean use, and empowering communities to become active stewards of ocean health for future generations.