"My synopsis thing"

I first decided to come to South Africa because my boyfriend was offered a job out here. At the time it was a very dreary November in England and I thought, what the hell, I've been working for five years, it's about time I took a break!

At home I am an Assistant Producer for a radio station, but I wanted to do something different in South Africa - possibly voluntary work. So, not knowing where to start, I typed 'voluntary work, South Africa' (very inspired!) into my search engine and WWISA popped up. I was not sure what kind of work I wanted to do, so I e-mailed Fred at WWISA and asked for some advice.

I got a very friendly and helpful reply, the same day, telling me that I could be placed according to my needs and wants, whether it be horse-riding, dolphin research, working in a lodge, helping in a school or hospital, anything.

I joined the organisation and now feel like part of the family! Fred and Rocky are great fun and constantly keep in touch to check that I am doing okay. They also cook a mean fish braii. As for the job, it is completely different from what I do at home, which is just what I wanted. I am working in the head office of three lodges owned by the same person, one of which is on an elephant reserve! I am involved in promotion, sales and marketing.

I work four days a week, which is great and gives me the other day to help out at a horse-riding centre. I am only at the start of my year in South Africa, but so far it is excellent. The people are lovely, the weather is hot, the beaches are gorgeous and the food and drink is cheap!

Natalie Whitehead

UK

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