Sarah Barratt's Journey to Safari Guide of the Year (SGOTY) 2026
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What does it take to become one of Africa’s top safari guides?
In this inspiring episode of HFM 96.4, Llewell is joined by Michelle du Plessis from FGASA and Sarah Barratt, one of the five finalists for Safari Guide of the Year 2026 (SGOTY).
Discover how the prestigious Safari Guide of the Year competition celebrates excellence in guiding, showcases the industry’s finest professionals, and raises the standard of safari guiding across Africa. Sarah shares her remarkable journey from growing up in the United Kingdom to pursuing her dream career in the South African bush, where she now guides at Thornybush and inspires guests from around the world through her passion for wildlife, storytelling and conservation.
Together, the conversation explores the importance of professional guiding, lifelong learning, mentorship, guest safety, and why exceptional safari guides play such a vital role in creating unforgettable wilderness experiences while protecting Africa’s natural heritage.
Whether you’re an aspiring guide, a conservation enthusiast, or simply love the African bush, this is a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s most unique professions.
Guests: Michelle du Plessis & Sarah Barratt
Host: Llewell Viljoen
Station: HFM 96.4 – Your Number One Conservation Station
In this inspiring episode of HFM 96.4, Llewell is joined by Michelle du Plessis from FGASA and Sarah Barratt, one of the five finalists for Safari Guide of the Year 2026 (SGOTY).
Discover how the prestigious Safari Guide of the Year competition celebrates excellence in guiding, showcases the industry’s finest professionals, and raises the standard of safari guiding across Africa. Sarah shares her remarkable journey from growing up in the United Kingdom to pursuing her dream career in the South African bush, where she now guides at Thornybush and inspires guests from around the world through her passion for wildlife, storytelling and conservation.
Together, the conversation explores the importance of professional guiding, lifelong learning, mentorship, guest safety, and why exceptional safari guides play such a vital role in creating unforgettable wilderness experiences while protecting Africa’s natural heritage.
Whether you’re an aspiring guide, a conservation enthusiast, or simply love the African bush, this is a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s most unique professions.
Guests: Michelle du Plessis & Sarah Barratt
Host: Llewell Viljoen
Station: HFM 96.4 – Your Number One Conservation Station
