At DAKTARI Bush School & Wildlife Orphanage, every team member brings their own story, passion, and dream. For Anthony, working in the kitchen became much more than preparing meals — it became an opportunity for growth, teamwork, and the discovery of a future filled with hope.

Ana, a two-month French university intern of DAKTARI, sat down with Anthony to learn more about his experience, his passion for cooking, and how DAKTARI helped shape his values.

Interview with Anthony

Ana: How did you discover and why did you choose DAKTARI?

“I discovered DAKTARI through a friend who completed a six-month placement here. He shared many positive stories about the atmosphere, the people, and the experience of working with international volunteers. Hearing about his journey inspired me to apply because I saw it as an opportunity for both personal and professional growth.”

Ana: What was your first impression of DAKTARI?

“My first impression of DAKTARI was how unique the environment is. I was amazed by the combination of comfort and wilderness. Seeing animals like giraffes, zebras, and buffalo every day made the experience unforgettable and allowed me to work closely with nature.”

Ana: Can you tell us how your interest in cooking began and what motivated you to pursue this career path?

“I have always been passionate about cooking. I enjoy creating recipes and experimenting with different flavours, textures, and colours. Becoming a chef has always been my dream, and working at DAKTARI helped me continue developing my culinary skills while gaining practical experience in the kitchen.”

Ana: What are the main skills you have developed since working in the kitchen, and how have they helped you grow?

“One of the biggest skills I developed was learning how to prepare healthy meals for people from many different cultures. I had to adapt beyond traditional South African cuisine, which challenged me to become more creative and open-minded in the kitchen. This experience helped me grow both personally and professionally.”

Ana: Which values has DAKTARI taught you in your work, and why?

“The most important value I learned at DAKTARI is teamwork. Working in the kitchen every day taught me how important it is to communicate, support others, and work together toward the same goal. Over time, the kitchen became more than just a workplace — it became a group of friends.”

Ana: How has the DAKTARI experience influenced your vision for the future and your personal ambitions?

“My experience at DAKTARI inspired me to pursue my dream of becoming an international chef. I would love to travel the world, discover new cultures and culinary traditions, and continue improving my skills by working with people from different backgrounds. This experience gave me more confidence and a clearer vision of the future I want to build.”

A Journey of Growth

Anthony’s story is one of dedication, discovery, and personal growth. What began as a passion for cooking has evolved into a strong desire to pursue an international culinary career.

At DAKTARI, he not only improved his cooking skills but also learned valuable lessons about teamwork, adaptability, and cultural exchange. As he continues his journey, he carries with him the experiences, friendships, and inspiration gained during his time in the bush.