At DAKTARI Bush School & Wildlife Orphanage, we empower people in our local community through education, employment, and professional development. One inspiring example of this commitment is the journey of Isaac, our dedicated Head Chef, whose passion and hard work recently led him to a special training opportunity with our partner, Sausage Tree Safari Camp.

Isaac’s journey at DAKTARI

Isaac first joined DAKTARI as a kitchen intern as part of youth development program. From the beginning, he showed enthusiasm, motivation, and a genuine love for cooking. Working in the DAKTARI kitchen is a dynamic role: preparing meals for international volunteers, staff members, and visitors while maintaining high standards of organisation, hygiene, and hospitality.

Through dedication and consistent effort, Isaac quickly proved himself to be a valuable member of the team. His commitment and positive attitude stood out, and after completing his internship, he was offered a permanent position.

Today, Isaac proudly serves as DAKTARI’s Head Chef, playing a key role in the daily life of the organisation. His meals bring people together and help fuel the busy days of our volunteers and staff who work to care for wildlife and educate local children.

A special training at Sausage Tree Safari Camp

Recently, Isaac had the opportunity to participate in a professional training at Sausage Tree Safari Camp, one of DAKTARI’s valued partners.

During his time there, Isaac was able to discover new culinary techniques, explore different flavours and ingredients, and gain insight into hospitality and guest experience in a safari lodge environment. This training allowed him to expand his skills and learn new ways of preparing and presenting meals.

Experiences like this are incredibly valuable, not only for professional growth but also for bringing fresh inspiration and creativity back to the DAKTARI kitchen.

A meaningful full-circle moment

One of the most special aspects of this training was the person who guided Isaac during his experience.

Kabello was his trainer at Sausage Tree Safari Camp. She is a former child who once participated in the DAKTARI environmental education programme. She first came to DAKTARI in 2006, she was one of the first children visiting DAKTARI to learn about wildlife conservation and the importance of protecting nature.

Today, she is working in the hospitality industry as a full time chef at Sausage Tree Safari Camp and had the opportunity to share her knowledge with Isaac.

This moment perfectly reflects the long-term impact of education. A child inspired by DAKTARI is now helping train a member of the DAKTARI team. It is a powerful reminder of how education, opportunity, and community support can come full circle.

Investing in people and community

At DAKTARI Bush School & Wildlife Orphanage, our mission goes beyond wildlife conservation. We are also deeply committed to supporting local communities by creating employment opportunities and encouraging personal and professional growth.

Isaac’s journey—from intern to Head Chef, and now benefiting from specialised training—is a wonderful example of what can happen when dedication meets opportunity.

We are incredibly proud of Isaac and excited to see how the knowledge and inspiration he gained at Sausage Tree Safari Camp will continue to enrich life at DAKTARI.