10 Years of Nightjar Training & Safaris
What began as a vision to train and inspire guides has become a decade-long journey of growth, mentorship and unforgettable safari moments.
September marked a milestone for Nightjar Training & Safaris: our 10-year anniversary.
When we began in 2015, our vision was clear: to provide quality training and FGASA assessments for existing guides and guiding teams who could not afford the time or expense of long-term, costly courses. That vision remains at the core of what we do today. Training and assessments are still our foundation, but over the years we have also grown to include guided safaris and professional guiding services.
With growth has come natural evolution. Our brand has shifted from the original Nightjar Training | Consulting | Guiding to the more focused Nightjar Training & Safaris. What has not changed is our belief that training and guiding are inseparable. Training makes me a better guide, and guiding makes me a better trainer. That balance keeps us grounded in both worlds, tuned in to industry trends and constantly adapting our services for guides and safari guests alike.
Celebrating Success Stories
Over the past decade, we’ve witnessed countless success stories. Too many to mention here, but two in particular capture what this journey has been about.
Matthew Derry, now Head Guide at Kwandwe, reflects on his time under our mentorship:
“When I came to the Lowveld to pursue my dream of becoming a trails guide, I had the privilege of having Charles as my mentor. From the very beginning, he ignited a deep passion in me for walking and for the wilderness. Over time, I was fortunate to share more than 300 hours and 120 encounters under his guidance, experiences that shaped not only my skills, but also my philosophy as a guide.
Charles has always placed a strong emphasis on ethics and integrity in the bush. The way he walks, the way he interprets the landscape, and the respect he holds for nature have all left a lasting impression on me. These values became the foundation of how I like to walk, and they continue to guide me on every trail.
Since then, I’ve gone on to become a FGASA Trails Guide Mentor myself, and a recently certified CyberTracker Trailing Professional. But it’s safe to say that the patience, knowledge, and quiet confidence Charles showed me in those early days are still with me every step of the way.
To now see him progress to SKS Dangerous Game Guide is something that fills me with immense pride. His influence on my journey has been profound, and I know many others can say the same.”
Another journey that stands out is that of Justice Mashale, whom we met in our very first year of business. Back then he was working as a tracker, already highly skilled in his craft. Since then, Justice has gone on to achieve his FGASA Apprentice Guide, NQF4, and Lead Trails qualifications with our support, and has passed his Professional Field Guide exam. He is now working towards final assessment.
Perhaps most inspiring is how he has discovered his true passion in guiding: becoming an Astronomy Guide. It was an honour to sit in on his assessment and witness just how much he has grown, both as a guide and as a person, over the past decade.
A Decade of Gratitude
What drives us forward is seeing guides grow, develop, and thrive in their careers. To every guide who has trained with us, whether briefly or extensively, we couldn't have done it without you. thank you.
To our safari guests who have joined us for countless sightings, evenings around the fire, and conversations under African skies, we are grateful for your support.
And finally, the biggest thanks goes to the quiet force behind Nightjar, my wife and co-owner, Shirell. None of this would have been possible without her patience, resilience, and vision. She is the one who ensures our marketing and social media stay consistent, keeps the behind-the-scenes running smoothly, and holds it all together when I’m deep in the bush without signal, often for extended periods of time. Thank you for walking this journey with me, Shirell, and for reaching this milestone by my side.
Looking Ahead
As we look to the next 10 years, we will continue to grow and adapt our training and guiding services to meet the needs of guides and guests who choose us.
Here’s to another decade of learning, guiding, and safaris with Nightjar.
Until next time,
Charles & The Nightjar Team
