Families in Conservation

At the heart of this decision was 18-year-old Isabel, affectionately known as Izzy. With a lifelong dream of becoming a veterinarian, Izzy needed hands-on experience to strengthen her university application. “I’ve always wanted to be a vet for as long as I can remember,” she shared. “This programme was the perfect way to learn animal care, behaviour, and husbandry with real wildlife.”

Her father, Dominic, saw this as more than an academic stepping stone. With Izzy’s milestone 18th birthday and her brother Henry’s 21st on the horizon, he wanted to mark the year in a meaningful way. “I was already looking for something special to do with them. We all love Africa, my mum is originally from Johannesburg, so when we found this program, it just felt right. And, I’ll admit, the accommodation looked lush!”

What began as Izzy’s solo project soon grew into a family adventure. Henry, who had previously climbed Mount Kilimanjaro to raise funds for a children’s charity in Kenya, was quick to join. “I’ve always loved animals and conservation. Doing this as a family just made sense. It’s a chance to learn more about the issues here in Africa and how we can contribute.”

For Dominic, the draw was simple but powerful: “Being close to the animals, helping out, and doing it all together. That’s what I’m most excited about.”

The Heaths represent something rare, a family choosing to bond not through leisure, but through shared purpose. Their week at the ranch involved learning the rhythm of daily animal care, supporting enrichment projects, and gaining a deeper understanding of conservation challenges.

And while each of them came with individual goals, Izzy for veterinary experience, Henry for conservation insight, and Dominic for quality family time, their journey is united by something bigger: giving their time and energy to wildlife.

For families considering a meaningful way to connect, the Heaths’ story is proof that the Wild Animal Volunteer Program is more than an individual journey. It’s an opportunity for families to grow closer while contributing to conservation. It’s an experience that caters to all over the age of 18... that facilitates lifelong memories and strengthens bonds that last far beyond the ranch.

Why not make your next family adventure one that changes lives, including your own?