Mission
IFGA’s mission is to drive excellence in the guiding industry by prioritising highly interpretive and immersive guest experiences. We recognise exceptional guides for their expertise, passion, and ability to connect people with the natural world.
Crucially, IFGA allows guides to stand out and showcase their skills to the industry, as the IFGA assessment provides an accurate and transparent score of their true ability.
Philosophy
After listening to feedback from various stakeholders across the industry who told us that change was needed, we set about delivering it.
We believe that professional recognition should be accessible to all. By keeping our membership entirely free, we remove financial barriers to career development, building an inclusive association that truly represents the interests of its members worldwide. To support this, our philosophy centres on removing traditional industry hurdles. We provide a free digital ecosystem and make it easy - and free - to become a member.
Meet the IFGA Council
Chairman
Byron Ross
Byron’s guiding career began over 30 years ago at prestigious lodges including Londolozi, Singita and Thornybush. Now part of Silver Sengi, he trains guides across Africa and beyond.
Council Member
Tessa Bolt
Tessa brings over 35 years of safari knowledge and experience. One of the first female guides in Botswana, and at Mala Mala, she has travelled and worked extensively across Africa.
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Council Member
Nico Brits
Bushwise Training Manager with 15 years experience in tourism, nine as an active safari guide. Nico loves sharing his passion and knowledge with the next generation of guides.
Council Member
Rod Wyndham
Managing Director of Sabi Sabi with 35 years of experience in the hospitality industry. He is a proponent of the role IFGA will play in field guiding and supporting rural youth.
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