The Eastern Cape Parks and Tourism Agency (ECPTA) has, over the years, created opportunities for young people to develop skills, gain experience, and grow within the organisation. One of those young people is the 29-year-old Xoliswa Cola from Mpofu Nature Reserve, a determined and hardworking female Field Ranger who has steadily built her career in an industry historically dominated by men.
Cola’s journey with ECPTA began in 2017 when she was appointed as a Field Ranger trainee. From the start, she made it clear that her gender would not define her capabilities or limit her ambitions. Working alongside experienced rangers, many of whom are male, Cola quickly proved herself to be reliable, disciplined, and passionate about conservation.
She admits that joining a male-dominated team was not without its challenges. “In the beginning, it was tough because people had their doubts about whether I could keep up. But I’ve always believed that strength is not just physical, it’s also about courage, discipline, and heart,” she said.
Through resilience and a genuine love for nature and wildlife protection, Cola gained the respect of her peers and supervisors. Her dedication did not go unnoticed, and in 2018, she was appointed as a permanent Field Ranger. For her, the promotion was more than just a career milestone; it was a personal victory and a breakthrough for other young women aspiring to work in conservation.
Today, Cola is part of a team responsible for the day-to-day protection of wildlife, patrolling park boundaries, monitoring animal movements, and ensuring the safety of both visitors and natural resources. She carries out her duties with pride, fully aware of the important role she plays in conserving the province’s rich biodiversity.
Cola believes that it’s important for young women to break into spaces where they’re often underrepresented. “I want to show other young women that there’s nothing you can’t do if you are passionate and willing to work hard. It’s not about proving yourself to others but about proving to yourself that you are capable,” she explained.
Her story stands as a powerful reminder of ECPTA’s role in creating opportunities for young people and promoting gender inclusion in the conservation sector. As ECPTA marks Youth Month, the agency celebrates young employees like Cola, whose journeys not only inspire others but also contribute to changing perceptions about what women can achieve in the conservation field.
