NVT bids farewell to Brittany Arendse
NATURE'S VALLEY - After eight years of dedicated hard work at the Nature's Valley Trust (NVT), conservation scientist Brittany Arendse recently bid farewell to the organisation.
A graduate of the University of Cape Town, Brittany was working at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden when in 2015 she decided to enroll in the WWF-SA Environmental Leaders Graduate Internship Programme where she poured her heart and soul into her work, and her commitment and dedication ultimately earned her a permanent position with NVT. She assumed the role of conservation scientist and delved into a diverse range of projects.
Brittany took on the task of managing numerous long-term marine and fynbos initiatives, tackling challenges and obstacles head on. "Her contributions were instrumental in establishing a robust Marine and Coastal programme and forging valuable collaborative networks," NVT said in a farewell message to Brittany. "She also took the reins of NVT's social media presence, using her creativity to develop engaging merchandise and promotional materials that captivated the public's interest."
Taking flight
Over and above her marine and fynbos work, Brittany had a burning passion for birds, which led her to becoming a qualified bird ringer.
She played a pivotal role as an active member of the #ShareTheShores coastal impact programme's shorebird monitoring section. Her dedication to the cause was especially evident in her work with the whitefronted plovers, earning her the title of the "ultimate plover lover".
"Brittany made significant strides in shorebird research and raised awareness through impactful campaigns. She personally ringed numerous plover chicks, witnessed their growth, and observed the ever-changing dynamics of our coastal ecosystems."
A cherished part of the family
Beyond her professional contributions, Brittany became an integral part of the Nature's Valley community. "In many ways, she became a cherished member of the NVT family," NVT said in their statement.
"However, as the adage goes, all good things must come to an end. Her time with NVT has now come to an end as Brittany has decided to embark on a new adventure and take her expertise overseas to Ireland, where she will be joining an environmental consultancy company.
"While we will undoubtedly miss Brittany's presence here at NVT, we are excited for her and the opportunities that lie ahead.
“Brittany's unwavering determination, motivation, and boundless enthusiasm assure us that she is destined for success in her new journey. We wish her nothing but the best as she embraces this exciting new chapter.
“Wherever her path may lead, we hope she seizes every opportunity with the same enthusiasm and dedication that she brought to our team. Farewell, Brittany, and best of luck on your exciting new adventure!"
A sad goodbye
"I will of course miss Nature's Valley and the NVT team as I embark on my next adventure," Brittany said.
"I am very confident in the skill and abilities I have developed here over the last eight years and believe it will be a foundation to build my future on. Of course I will also miss my white-fronted plovers and spending my mornings on the beaches with them. I have also met amazing people in the Plett area and will carry all of those lovely connections with me as I wander around the Emerald Isle. May the road rise up to meet each and every one that I love and hold dear here in SA."