Once a male-dominated profession, safari guiding is undergoing a remarkable transformation as more women enter and excel in the industry. The Field Guides Association of Southern Africa (FGASA) is proud to highlight the contributions of female guides who are redefining success in the wilderness and proving that passion and expertise know no gender.
One such trailblazer is Tovhi Mudau. A dedicated conservationist, sustainability advocate, and seasoned professional in the safari and travel industry, she holds an undergraduate degree in Zoology and an Honors degree in Environmental Management. With over a decade in the industry, as a Professional field guide and Trails guide, she held Senior positions at both Lion Sands and Singita. While currently in a managerial role within the travel industry at women lead ROAR AFRICA, whose core belief is “If African women rise, wildlife will thrive”, she still continues leading journeys into Southern and Eastern African pristine wilderness areas.
“When I first started, there was only one other woman in a team of twelve guides. Instead of blending in, I embraced my identity and used it as a strength,” says Tovhi. “Women bring a unique perspective to guiding, fostering a deeper connection between guests and the wilderness.”
Beyond her work life, Tovhi is the founder and chairperson of Acts of Kindness, a nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting and empowering indigent communities through skills development and support. And as of late sits on the board of an organisation called Women In Safari Excellence which empowers, mentors and supports women in this still very male-dominated industry.
Megan Heramb Smith is another pioneer reshaping the landscape of safari guiding. Raised in a family passionate about the bush, she pursued her dream of becoming a nature guide, earning her FGASA qualification and specializing in walking safaris. Now a freelance guide, Megan leads multi-day wilderness trails, offering guests an immersive experience on foot. She is also a proud member of Women In Safari Excellence (WISE), a network dedicated to supporting female professionals in the industry.
“There is something strangely liberating about achy feet, sunburnt skin, and a heavy pack on your back. At the end of a three-night trail, you are physically tired, but you’re also mentally and emotionally renewed,” says Megan.
“It’s even more liberating when you think back on every hour and every encounter it took to get you to where you are. Every minute spent in the bush prepared me for where I am today and will continue to prepare me for where I still want to go.”
The number of women pursuing FGASA certifications has grown steadily over the past decade, reflecting a broader industry shift toward inclusivity. FGASA actively supports this progress by providing accessible training programs, mentorship initiatives, and partnerships with leading safari operators to promote gender diversity. Many female guides have advanced to leadership roles, becoming lodge managers, conservationists, and business owners, further proving that guiding serves as a gateway to diverse career opportunities in the safari industry.
In 2023, FGASA’s Safari Guide of the Year was awarded to guide Kimberlee Le Hanie, the first woman to have achieved this in the competition’s history. The Safari Guide of the Year award recognises individuals who exemplify outstanding leadership, professionalism, career commitment, and passion in the safari industry. Competing against five male guides, Kimberlee took first prize in three out of five of the competition categories.
“Tovhi, Megan and Kimberlee’s stories exemplify the resilience, dedication, and expertise that women bring to this profession,” says Michelle du Plessis, FGASA Managing Director. “We are committed to fostering an environment where more women can thrive in guiding and conservation.”
FGASA continues to champion gender equality in safari guiding, ensuring that the future of African ecotourism is shaped by the talents of both men and women.
