26/08/2026
Meet Kaylon Minnaar - Biomonitoring Officer
Growing up in the city, I always felt drawn to the bush. My journey began at Welgevonden, where I volunteered after matric to discover whether I had what it takes to live and work in conservation. That experience changed my life and confirmed that this was the path I was meant to follow. πΏ
I left my permanent job to study Nature Conservation and, during my studies, volunteered as a research assistant before joining Somkhanda Community Game Reserve. There, I gained hands-on experience in reserve maintenance, wildlife monitoring, snare sweeps, wildlife interventions, and community conservation initiatives.
My journey then led me to Wildlife ACT, where I worked as a Priority Species Monitor at Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park and a Conservation Course Facilitator. From endangered species monitoring and leopard surveys to wild dog care, wildlife collarings, lion management, and contributing to vulture conservation projects, every experience deepened my passion for protecting our natural heritage. π¦πΎπ¦
In 2024, I came full circle and joined Welgevonden as a Biomonitoring Officer. I'm grateful for every opportunity, challenge, and lesson that has shaped my conservation journey, and I'm excited to continue making a difference for wildlife and the ecosystems we work so hard to protect. ππ
Kaylon can't wait to welcome you to the Biomonitoring Camp.