Interview with Jaco from the Big 5 project in South Africa

We chatted to Jaco who works at the Big 5 Conservation project in South Africa, about his background and passion for nature. An inspirational person for our volunteers to spend time with!

Where did you grow up?

I’m originally from Gauteng in South Africa but left the city lights behind to follow my passion for nature. I’ve since worked in Limpopo and the Western Cape, and have been based in the Eastern Cape for the past five and a half years.

How long have you been working at the Big 5 Conservation project?

I’ve been with the Big 5 Conservation project since January 2020, so just over five and a half years, and I currently serve as the Volunteer Programme Manager and Conservation Coordinator.

What did you do before working at Big 5 Conservation project?

Before joining, I worked at several game reserves across Limpopo. After completing my studies in Nature Conservation in Pretoria and George at Nelson Mandela University in the Garden Route, I hosted wildlife safaris across Southern Africa, conducting mobile 4x4 camping safaris through South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Zambia. Along the way, I was fortunate to experience natural wonders such as the Okavango Delta, Chobe River, Khwai Concession, and Victoria Falls. These experiences deepened my passion for connecting people with the natural world.

What’s your favourite part of your job?

I love sharing my passion for wildlife and conservation with volunteers from around the world to inspire them to get involved. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how their time here not only teaches them about conservation but often transforms the way they view nature forever.

What’s your favourite South African animal?

Definitely elephants. There’s something magical about their grace and power, and it’s always a privilege to see and study them in the wild.

What's your favourite food?

You can’t beat a South African braai with good company. I also love cooking over the fire, whether it’s a vegetable curry pot, which we call potjiekos, a hearty stew in a cast iron pot, or simply a braai with fresh whole foods and vegetables.

What are some of your favourite things to do on your days off?

I spend as much time outdoors as I can, exploring nature, hiking, surfing, horse riding, camping, or stargazing. I also enjoy more creative outlets like pottery and poetry, and I love taking my camera along to capture special moments in nature.

Do you have any hobbies or passions?

Wildlife photography is a big passion of mine as it allows me to connect people with nature’s magic and tell stories that inspire conservation. I’m also deeply passionate about biodiversity conservation, rewilding, and spending time camping in wild places.

What's a country that you haven’t visited yet but would love to travel to and why?

Uganda, to see the mountain gorillas, and Kenya, to experience the Maasai Mara and the Great Migration, both incredible wildlife spectacles I hope to witness one day.

If you would like to join our Big 5 Conservation project in South Africa you can find out more about it here: www.podvolunteer.org/projects/big-5-conservation