Journey reflections: Three SKS Qualifications Before 40
From Birding to Astronomy to Dangerous Game, Charles Delport reflects on two decades of guiding, mentorship, and lifelong learning in the African wilderness, after achieving his 3rd SKS qualificaiton.
This year has been a milestone one for Nightjar Training & Safaris. As we celebrate 10 years of training, guiding, and mentoring in the safari industry,
I have also reached a deeply personal achievement: completing three FGASA SKS (Specialist Knowledge & Skills) qualifications before the age of 40.
For those unfamiliar, SKS qualifications represent the highest level of specialist recognition within the Field Guides Association of Southern Africa, aside from Scout level. Each one takes years of commitment, study, and practical hours in the bush.
With over 7,000 logged on-foot hours and hundreds & hundreds of encounters with Africa’s most iconic wildlife, the SKS DG qualification was definitely well overdue.
Why It Matters
Guiding is not a static career. To remain relevant, safe, and inspirational to both guests and mentees, we must constantly challenge ourselves to improve. Completing SKS Dangerous Game was humbling. It reinforced the responsibility we have when mentoring the next generation of guides and reminded me of why I started this journey in the first place.
How the SKS Qualifications Connect
Birding, Astronomy, and now Dangerous Game may sound like very different fields, yet they complement one another. Birding has always been my first love, sharpening my ability to read the bush through calls and subtle movements. Astronomy added a new dimension, allowing me to connect guests to Africa’s skies and stories. Dangerous Game brought everything together, grounding those skills in the practical reality of walking safaris and close wildlife encounters.
Together, these disciplines have shaped me into a more well-rounded guide and trainer, and they allow me to share a richer, more layered experience with guests and students.
A Journey that Started Early
My passion for the bush began in childhood, influenced by family who lived and worked in remote wildlife areas. I always knew I wasn’t destined for an office. In school, I remember passing a billboard advertising a Game Ranging and Lodge Management course with FGASA qualifications. Something clicked. That spark became the path I’ve walked ever since.
10 Years of Nightjar Training & Safaris
When we started Nightjar, the vision was simple: provide on-site training for already qualified guides and lodge teams, filling a gap that few organisations catered for. A decade later, that mission remains at the heart of what we do. Staying active in guiding myself has been essential. It keeps me grounded, relevant, and connected to the challenges guides face daily.
Mentorship and the Next Generation
Over the years, I’ve been privileged to mentor many guides. My approach has always been to lead by example, to show rather than tell, and to support guides well beyond the day of assessment. Their success gives me immense pride. Mentorship does not end when a qualification is signed off, it continues through the choices and careers that follow.
Lessons from the Bush
Two decades in the field have given me more memorable encounters than I can count. From watching a leopard spend hours fishing for catfish, to stumbling across a sleeping rhino cow and calf on foot, every moment is a reminder that nature is dynamic and unpredictable. Each experience teaches humility and adaptability, qualities every guide should carry.
Looking Ahead
I believe guiding will continue to grow as a respected career path. Standards are constantly rising, and with that comes the opportunity for guides to specialise, to bring their passions forward, and to inspire guests in authentic ways. Guests save for years to experience Africa. We owe them the best version of ourselves every time we step into the field.
Closing Thoughts
Reaching three SKS qualifications before 40 is a proud moment, but it is not the end of the journey. For me, it is another step in a lifelong path of learning, exploring, and sharing.
As Nightjar Training & Safaris celebrates its 10th year, I remain committed to the same principles that started this journey: passion for the wilderness, humility in the face of nature, and dedication to inspiring both guests and guides alike.
For more on FGASA qualifications, visit www.fgasa.org.za. To learn more about our training and safaris, visit www.nightjar.co.za.
Until next time,
Charles & the Nightjar Team
