Powered by the Field Guides Association of southern Africa (FGASA) and hosted by Kapama Private Game Reserve, Kimberlee Le Hanie became the first woman to win the prestigious Safari Guide of the Year competition.
Kimberlee’s exceptional knowledge, unwavering dedication, and remarkable expertise have captivated both guests and industry professionals, solidifying her place among the very best in the field of safari guiding.
The Safari Guide of the Year award recognises individuals who exemplify outstanding leadership, professionalism, career commitment, and passion in the safari industry. Kimberlee’s extraordinary commitment to delivering an unforgettable safari experience, combined with her deep understanding and respect for the African wilderness, has earned her this well-deserved accolade.
Kimberlee’s journey to becoming the Safari Guide of the Year began at the MORE Field Guide College and has been marked by her exceptional career at Marataba Safari Lodge and Lion Sands Game Reserve.
Over the years, Kimberlee’s commitment to her craft has been unwavering. Her genuine passion for the environment has propelled her to go above and beyond, continuously seeking to develop her career through FGASA and enhance her guiding skills. Her dedication to her profession has made her a role model for aspiring guides.
“We are incredibly proud of Kim and all that she has achieved on her journey since she was a student in 2017 at MORE Field Guide College. Field guides play such an important educational aspect on a safari and Kim is an excellent ambassador for the natural world leading with passion and always growing in knowledge. She is well liked by all our guests, a true asset at Lion Sands.” – Robert More, CEO and Custodian, MORE Family Collection.
As the first woman to win Safari Guide of the Year, Kimberlee has shattered glass ceilings and broken stereotypes in the industry. Her accomplishment serves as an inspiration to aspiring female guides. Kimberlee’s achievement demonstrates that attitude, passion, and expertise know no boundaries, and that women can excel in traditionally male-dominated fields.
Kimberlee’s achievement, however, serves as more than a glistening trophy and the title of Safari Guide of the Year. Her accomplishments during the week of the competition are already having a seismic impact the guiding industry and for women. Kimberlee will be a shining light, setting the example of guiding excellence and serving as a beacon of inspiration, not only to young females beginning their journeys in the industry, and the women that have already excelled in their careers as guides, but for all who have the commitment and passion for Africa’s wild places, and who are dedicated to fostering education and connection to the natural world.
Kimberlee is to be admired. She is the epitome of excellence, and as a person it speaks volumes to this achievement. The guiding world are all incredibly proud of her and look forward to watching her grow and develop further in an already stellar career.
“I’m feeling more inspired to keep the momentum going. Winning has confirmed that I can do anything I put my heart and mind too, I’ve been very humbled by the whole experience and I’m feeling incredibly honoured. My heart is so full, and I can’t wait to get back out there and just continue to do what I absolutely love to do!” – Kimberlee Le Hanie, Field Guide, and Safari Guide of the Year winner 2023.
Kimberlee’s win is a testament to her exceptional skill, dedication to conservation, and ground-breaking achievements in the field. FGASA, Lion Sands Game Reserve and the MORE Family Collection congratulate Kimberlee on this momentous accomplishment and look forward to her continued success as an ambassador for the safari industry.
Louise Pavid
Marketing and Communications Manager, FGASA
