My Story

You’re about to read an unfinished journey, but a journey nonetheless. Chapters are closing, and new ones are opening as you read.

Since childhood, the great outdoors has been my sanctuary, classroom and playground. Growing up in a city but what felt like a rural area surrounded by lush forests, lots of bush and greenery, and meandering little rivers, nature was not just a backdrop — it was an integral part of my upbringing.

As a child, I spent endless hours exploring the woods around my house, climbing trees, playing with little critters in creeks, and always picking fruit. Each day was an adventure filled with discoveries and wonders. From observing wild African birds to cycling through dirt roads to my friends’ houses on my BMX, every moment spent outdoors was a lesson in curiosity and exploration.

I was born in Nairobi, Kenya, where my overwhelming fondness for nature and the wilderness began. My early solo adventures brought me to the foothills of Mount Kenya and the shorelines of Lake Naivasha, where I first experienced hiking and camping at 12 years of age.

As I grew older, my love for nature only deepened. While other teenagers were interested in socialising, I was hiking trails, cycling through unknown forests, camping under the stars, and, of course, partying with friends when peer pressure was on as it often is during most teenage years.

The outdoors became my refuge — a place where I could escape school (sometimes but not often) and everyday life and reconnect with myself where I could have fun and enjoy through play.

There were no mobile phones, iPads or other devices. My parents did gift me an Atari console, but the enthusiasm for the gift was short-lived. I also got a Commodore 64 computer a few years later, but my infatuation for nature and exploration was more excitable.

However, at age 13, my excitement levels elevated when I got my first Canon SLR camera with a 5 pack of Kodak films. Also, a gift from my parents when we travelled around California during one of the school holidays.

Things changed, and I could now capture my adventures and show myself why nature has been my most outstanding teacher. She has taught me patience as I waited for the perfect moment to capture a sunrise, courage as I navigated wild terrain, and gratitude as I witnessed the beauty of a pristine wilderness.

The most profound lesson nature has imparted is the importance of presence. In a world filled with distractions, the outdoors has a way of grounding me, bringing me back to the present moment and reminding me of what truly matters.

Whether it’s the sound of birdsong, the scent of pine needles, or the feel of cool river water against my skin, nature has a way of awakening my senses and filling me with a sense of peace and contentment.

I took these learnings into high school and my years at university on the US East Coast.

The US, especially the Blue Ridge and the Appalachian Mountains, has profoundly impacted my outlook on the wilderness; spending time outdoors shaped my values and priorities. It has instilled in me a deep reverence for the natural world and a commitment to protecting and preserving it for future generations.

From participating in voluntary conservation efforts to advocating for environmental policies, I am dedicated to being a steward of the land and ensuring that others have the same opportunities to experience the wonders of nature that have enriched my life.

Trekking the Appalachian Trail was an experience that changed my life forever! An experience etched in my mind and soul. Following my years of living in the US, a whole host of wild adventures began to unfold that spanned across continents, from backpacking and trekking, climbing and cycling, canoeing and camping and everything in between, as long as it was in nature.

Today, as a father and husband, I continue to prioritise time spent outdoors. Whether it’s guiding an adventurous hike or multi-day trek, a weekend camping trip with the family or a solo adventure to a remote wilderness area, nature remains an integral part of my life. It has helped me cultivate resilience in the face of adversity, fostered a sense of wonder and curiosity, and provided me with inspiration and creativity during life’s most challenging moments.

As a parent of a 16 year old special needs child, navigating the challenges can be overwhelming. Yet, amidst the trials and tribulations, the great outdoors has been my saving grace. Nature’s embrace offers healing and a respite from the hardship of raising a special needs son. I know this first-hand!

My son has also found joy in the outdoors like most children do. In the tranquillity of the wilderness, my son finds peace, happiness, and a sense of freedom when we go camping. Together, we explore, play, and connect with the natural world. The vastness of nature reminds us of the infinite possibilities, and we find strength in its beauty.

My daughter is no different! She is 19 and still finds fantastic joy in skateboarding and roller-skating when we are at a campsite or riding through the woods on our mountain bikes. If I ever questioned the process of life, my wife and daughter have been a pillar of assurance to life’s amazement.

My family and the outdoors have been a constant source of stability and grounding for me in a chaotic and uncertain world. It has taught me to embrace change while finding beauty in the simplest things and appreciate the interconnectedness of all living beings.

Through nature, I have discovered my most authentic self and the profound interconnectedness of all life.

Today, I’m grateful for inspiring others on my guided adventures. As a guide and leader, I feel most at home as I’m always in nature’s arms and, at the same time, inspiring others on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth.

Ultimately, I am grateful for the countless lessons, experiences and memories nature has gifted me throughout my life. It has helped shape me into the person I am today — a person deeply connected to the natural world, committed to living with purpose and intention and dedicated to positively impacting the world around me.