Our first “Leading by Nature” workshop was an enriching and connective learning process for all involved. Participants returned to their daily roles motivated to put newfound insights and fresh perspectives into practice.
“Thank you for hosting our guides. They were full of fire on their return and already planning an overnight solo…They really felt welcomed…and enjoyed the offerings.” ~ Arnold, Executive Director, Usiko.
Based at Giraffe View Safari Camp in Wittedrift, the program introduced participants to the 8Shields natural learning cycle as the foundation for many of the field activities that followed, including: nature observation, plant and tree identification, birding introduction, animal behaviour, fire-making with hand drill, as well as nature guiding styles and skills aimed at giving people a meaningful experience, rather than just acquiring knowledge alone.
Ultimately, the workshop supported participants in deepening their awareness of nature as a necessary foundation for improving skills in working with people. It set the scene for what we call natural leadership. It is also an integral part of the Masiyembo Association: an initiative bringing together to nature guides and facilitators with a commitment to the thriving of life on earth and a desire to share knowledge and create opportunities for people to find meaning and wellbeing through nature and community.
The workshop included various site visits around Plettenberg Bay, including the Keurbooms estuary and Robberg Peninsula Nature Reserve. On Sunday, participants visited the Point of Human Origins at Pinnacle Point, Mossel Bay for an engaging tour with professional archaeologist Dr. Peter Nilssen and accomplished site guide Christopher Jantjies to experience the power the cave and how awareness of our original human design can serve natural leadership and our collective behaviour on the planet.
The finale of the weekend was a visit to Gondwana Game Reserve with a guided game drive that weaved together key learning insights from the workshop about how to effectively guide across different contexts, using nature as our guide.
Leading by Nature was facilitated by Roy Ashton and Dr. Matthew Zylstra (Research Associate, Sea Change Trust).
We are very grateful for the financial support received from a local philanthropist and in-kind support from Bhejane Adventures, Giraffe View Safari Camp, Point of Human Origins and Gondwana Game Reserve, all of which made the workshop possible.
