Unisa student scoops top tourism award

Sidney receiving the award from Derek Hanekom, Minister of Tourism

Sidney Fhumulani Mikosi, a Nature Conservation student, has been named the best provincial and national nature guide for 2016/2017 during the Lilizela Tourism Awards.

The awards celebrate service excellence in the South African tourism industry. The industry is said to be one of the fastest growing in the world.

An excited Mikosi said he is humbled by the award. ”This award means a lot to me because it shows that the hard work that I put in every day is recognised. It is also extremely humbling, and I am proud that my contribution in the industry has been noticed by both the provincial and national adjudicators,” he explains.

Mikosi has scored similar accolades in the past and he attributed this to his strong passion and desire to make difference. He added that this was a driving force for him to pursue a career in nature conservation. “Being an environmental educator in the tourism industry, I add value to the environment by teaching people to appreciate the importance of the environment,” he said.

He currently works as the Head Nature Field Guide at SANParks and intends to further his studies in order to enhance his expertise.  “It is fortunate that with the knowledge I have gained from my studies, I can execute my responsibilities as a nature guide in a professional manner,” he concluded.  

Sidney introducing a group of youngsters to the wonders of the veld

*By Percy Mthombeni

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