Mr Katlego Molapo, a former firefighter and crew leader from Hammanskraal, has achieved a career transition. After years of dedicated service with the Working on Fire (WOF) Programme, Mr Molapo has been appointed as the Nature Conservation Foreman at the Marievale Bird Sanctuary in Nigel. This inspiring achievement serves as a source of pride and motivation for the Hammanskraal community.
Mr Molapo joined the WOF Programme in 2012, serving as a firefighter in Hammanskraal’s Dinokeng Game Reserve. Through training and experience, he developed valuable skills that paved the way for this appointment. His new role allows him to contribute to the preservation of biodiversity and make a positive impact on nature conservation.
Reflecting on his journey, Mr Molapo expressed gratitude to the WOF Programme for equipping him with the necessary skills and experience that made him employable. Over the years, he worked in four provincial game reserves, managing a crew of 25 members.
Notably, Mr Molapo was part of a historic Canada deployment in 2023, further expanding his expertise and knowledge. With a deep passion for his work, he emphasized the significance of his new appointment for both himself and his family. Leading a team dedicated to conserving biodiversity and protecting avian populations, Mr Molapo sees this role as an essential opportunity.
He highlighted the similarities between his new position and his previous role as a crew leader. Confident in his abilities, he pledged to excel in his tasks, drawing on his extensive understanding of nature conservation. He described the post as a perfect fit for him, aligning with his values and interests.
While Mr Molapo expressed his fondness for the fire line, he acknowledged that his success was a result of the support from his crew members. Nature conservation holds a special place in his heart, and he has been actively involved in it since joining the WOF Programme.
He expressed gratitude for the opportunities provided by the WOF Programme, recognizing the role it played in shaping his career and enabling his transition to nature conservation.
