Owner of a 24ha forestry operation and NCT Tree Farmer of the Year in 2015

Qualifications:

• Matric

Forestry career: 13 years

If you want the best results, you can’t run a forestry operation by remote control. Apart from planning silviculture and harvesting applications, I like to take a hands-on approach by working with my teams. It’s important to be directly involved.

WHY I LOVE WORKING IN THE FORESTRY SECTOR
My late husband introduced me to forestry. It was hard in the beginning, but it has taught me patience and resilience. There are difficult times – like facing the possibility of losing your entire compartment to pests or diseases, but you learn to rise above these.

MY ADVICE TO THOSE EXPLORING A CAREER IN FORESTRY
With the correct mindset, you are bound for big success. Forestry needs people who have passion, are dedicated and who are not afraid to get their hands dirty.