This month, we sat down with one of our wonderful staff members, Gonsalva, Hostess and Health & Safety Officer at Cherero Camp. Her warm hospitality and commitment to creating a safe, welcoming environment make her an essential part of the Kantabile Afrika family.
1) How did you become a Hostess and Health & Safety Officer at Cherero Camp?
“After completing my health and safety course, I knew I wanted to work somewhere that connected people with nature. Tourism felt like the perfect fit, it brings human experience and environmental care together. When I discovered Cherero Camp and saw the focus on sustainability and women’s empowerment, I knew I had found the right place that aligned with my values on keeping our environment safe for future generations.
With mentorship from the Kantabile Afrika, I was trained and guided into my role as Hostess. Now, I’m proud to do both roles, ensuring the camp runs safely while helping create a warm and welcoming atmosphere for our guests.”
2) What do you love most about your work?
“I really love knowing I play a role in making our guests feel safe and have a great experience. Being part of a team that is protecting the environment, and working with a team that supports and uplifts one another makes it even better.”
3) Are there any challenges as a woman working in this field?
“There are still many misconceptions about women working in remote or field-based roles. In many African countries, people think women should only work in offices (as secretaries) or stay at home. It takes confidence, self-belief, and mentorship to overcome these beliefs. However, if I encounter any challenges in my role, I know I agave the support of my team who are happy to help me.”
4) What’s it like working in the Serengeti?
“Working in the Serengeti is a special experience; I love the natural environment, and being surrounded by wildlife every day feels peaceful, refreshing, and inspiring. It always reminds me of the importance of protecting the environment.”
5) What’s your dream for the future?
“I want to keep growing, take on more leadership, and inspire other women to follow their dreams. I also want to make a positive impact on environmental health & safety.”
6) What do you enjoy most about your role?
“I love making guests feel at home—safe, comfortable and welcome. I also love working close to nature and being part of a workplace that supports and mentors us to grow and succeed.
I remember when we visited Lemugur Primary School to give a lesson to the kids there in celebration of World Wildlife Day, I felt that, just by being there as employed women, we inspired them or showed someone that it’s possible to chase your dreams and succeed.”
7) What do you think you’d like to see done differently?
“What I think could be done differently in the tourism and hospitality industry is to provide more training and mentorship opportunities, especially for women. Gender awareness should also be taught from a young age to help raise a generation without bias, where more young women feel confident to follow their dreams and realise they can succeed in many areas”
Asante sana Gonsalva!
Gonsalva’s dedication and passion is a reflection of what Kantabile Afrika stands for—empowerment, community, and connection to nature. We’re proud to have her as part of our team.
