Why did you decide to enroll with Oyster Worldwide in South Africa?
Dom: I enrolled in Oyster Worldwide South Africa because the project was exactly what I was looking for. I had wanted to work with monkeys and primates for a very long time, and when I saw the monkey rehabilitation program on the Oyster website, I decided it was an opportunity I simply could not pass up!
If you could go back and do something differently, what would it be?
Dom: I wouldn't change much about my time in South Africa. The only thing I would do differently is spend more time there (another week or so), and take more money so I could go on all of the different day trips and excursions that were on offer.
What was the most memorable moment of the trip?
Dom: I had many moments that I will undoubtedly remember forever. Firstly the contact with the monkeys and the baboons. But possibly my favorite part of the trip was the 3 day trip to Kruger National Park. Seeing animals that I have dreamed about seeing within 10 feet of the car was truly an unforgettable experience.
Tell me about one person you met.
Dom: Bob Venter, the man that runs riverside monkey rehabilitation center (along with his wife Lynne) Is one of the most interesting and inspiring people that I have ever met. Speaking to him about his life, and listening to his stories made me make my decision of what I wanted to go on and study at university - wildlife conservation.
How has this experience impacted your future?
Dom: My time at riverside made me realise that working with animals was what I wanted to do with the rest of my life. Simple as that!