You’re right. Women’s Month might be officially over, but let’s be honest—at WISE, we know that celebrating women isn’t something that can be contained by a single month on the calendar. The women who are guiding, conserving, and leading in this industry are rewriting its future every single day, and their work deserves to be honoured year-round.
When I first dreamt up WISE, it was because I saw a gap. For too long, the incredible contributions of women on the frontlines of this industry were going untold. My dream, and our collective purpose, was to create a community that shines a bright spotlight on these phenomenal women—the trailblazers, the pioneers, and the quiet changemakers.
I’ve had the honour of meeting so many of these women. The first black African woman from her village to qualify as a guide. The courageous female rangers protecting rhino and pangolin. The first female polers leading guests through the Okavango Delta. The guiding leaders and mentors who are paving the way for the next generation. These are the women who embody courage, resilience, and leadership. They aren’t just breaking barriers; they’re fundamentally reshaping the safari and conservation world for generations to come.
But this isn’t just about celebrating the “firsts.” It’s equally about honouring the experienced women who are already within this industry—the ones with the skills, wisdom, and heart to guide and mentor others. Together, we form the foundation of a community that truly uplifts, supports, and inspires.
I’ll be clear: WISE is a space built with intention — we know it may not resonate with everyone, and that’s okay. What matters is staying true to our vision and values.Our focus is intentional: recognising women whose work has a real impact on guiding, conservation, training, and other related fields. We know that by staying authentic to our purpose, the right women—and the right supporters—will find their way to us.
I always say this to our team and our members: “This is not a ‘me’ organization. It is a ‘we’ organization.” As we grow, WISE will remain rooted in that truth. Our purpose is to honour the women who lead with passion, provide support for those stepping into the industry, and ensure that women in safari and conservation are no longer overlooked. Instead, we’ll see them as the broad, growing community of leaders that they are.
Let’s continue to honour these women — the leaders, the trailblazers, and the quiet changemakers — whose impact reaches far beyond the safari.
Yours in Safari Excellence,
Jody Cole
Chair & Founder of WISE
