Meet The Committee

Meet the symco 2026 committee

Alison King

 

Chairperson

Growing up in the bush with binoculars in hand, I developed a deep love for South Africa’s wildlife and wild spaces — from the bush to the ocean. I have always believed these places must be protected for generations to come. As veterinary students, we are in a unique position to contribute to conservation, caring for individual animals while also preserving and maintaining entire ecosystems.
SYMCO brings this vision to life. It unites veterinarians, ecologists, conservationists, local communities, and students from across the globe. The symposium creates a space for collaboration, shared learning, and cultural exchange. SYMCO is a chance to turn passion into purpose, experience wildlife conservation in action, and leave a lasting impact.

alison@symco.co.za

zander van wyk

Vice Chairperson

Growing up amongst wildlife here in South Africa, I feel incredibly privileged to have been surrounded by the beauty and diversity of nature from an early age. From then on, I knew I wanted to dedicate my future to working with animals, and today that dream continues to guide me as a veterinary student aspiring to become a wildlife veterinarian. This journey has not only deepened my love for Africa’s wildlife but also sparked a passion for sharing knowledge and inspiring others about conservation.
 
Being part of Symco is a chance to connect with students from all over the world, while showcasing the beauty, complexity, and importance of South Africa’s wildlife. I cannot wait to share this experience and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Zander@symco.co.za

Monique kotze

IT & Design

What an honour to be part of something that works towards the improvement of conservation and to enrich me as a vet student with an experience to learn and to make life-long memories all in one! It is a blessing to be part of SYMCO ,and to persue my life-long dream of becoming a wildlife vet and to work so intimately with God’s creation! I hope to ,through the different social media platforms ,take you all with us on this journey , teach and show you the absolute beauty of our country. I hope through what we do, we can ignite a passion within you for conservation, wildlife and nature all in one! I believe this is the first of many dreams to become a reality of the career we are persuing, and I am excited for each and every one of them!

monique@symco.co.za

Enamari goldie

Applications & Communications 

Conservation has always been close to my heart, which is why being part of the SYMCO committee is such an exciting opportunity for me. Protecting wildlife and ecosystems is essential, and I believe veterinary students have a key role to play in shaping a sustainable future. SYMCO provides the perfect platform to educate and inspire others about the importance of conservation, while also creating opportunities for collaboration among future colleagues. Being able to help organise the “trip of a lifetime” for veterinary students from around the world is a privilege, as it combines learning, cultural exchange, and unforgettable experiences that will positively influence both careers and perspectives.

enamari@symco.co.za

luke peas

Applications & Communications 

Wildlife isn’t just a passion; it’s an identity that has shaped our country for years. Ever since I was a little boy, I’ve always been fascinated by how incredible these animals are and the importance they play globally. South Africa offers a pivotal role for wildlife conversation due its rich biodiversity, people and history, and being part of this change is a true blessing. As a member of the committee, I look forward to sharing the real beauty of this misunderstood country to a new generation of like-minded individuals, who will not only walk away with a life changing experience but realize the importance of protecting species and ecosystems for future survival.
 
 

luke@symco.co.za

reynard mc cabe

Speakers & Academics

Since I can remember, I’ve been captivated by creation —its depth, beauty, and the untamed stories it holds. Being out in the bush, working with wildlife, stirs something in me that’s hard to put into words. It’s this passion that drives me to create moments where others can share in this feeling. That’s why I’m incredibly honoured to serve on the SYMCO committee as the head of Academics and Speakers. This role allows me to bring inspiring voices and meaningful learning experiences to the forefront, sparking curiosity and passion in others. I’m excited to contribute to something bigger—cultivating a love for wildlife and conservation through powerful conversations and practical learning experiences.
 

reynard@symco.co.za

Janika loots

Itinerary & Clothing 

Being part of the SYMCO committee is truly a dream come true. Wildlife and conservation have always been close to my heart, and SYMCO brings those passions to life in the most unforgettable way. Growing up in South Africa, I feel so blessed to call this beautiful country home, and I am beyond excited to share it with you.  SYMCO is about connecting with nature, learning, broadening your knowledge about conservation and wildlife, laughing until your cheeks hurt, making memories you’ll talk about for years, and finding friends from across the world who feel like family. 
I had the privilege of attending the 2025 symposium so I can confidently say that you will leave the trip with a full heart and an inspired mind. I can not wait to welcome you into the SYMCO family. I am incredibly excited to embark on this unforgettable adventures with you and to show you all of the beuty that South Africa has to offer. 

janika@symco.co.za

andrea brundyn

Itinerary & Clothing 

I don’t think any words will ever be able to truly capture how honored and grateful I am to be a part of this incredible journey! SYMCO combines so many of the things I care deeply about— veterinary science, getting to know new people,our country’s natural beauty and the incredible wildlife we are so blessed and privileged have.
Growing up in the bush really sparked a deep love and passion for wildlife and the beautiful county we live in, and I am so excited to share this with our 2026 delegate group! Time after time, I’m humbled when I realize how blessed and honored we are to work with these beautiful animals and to live in a country as diverse and special as this. I hope that each person on this trip gets to experience this too, and that we will make unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

andrea@symco.co.za

conrad roux

Sponsorships

Being part of SYMCO is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience! I’ve always been passionate about our beautiful country and its incredible wildlife, and getting to share that with people from all over the world who feel the same way, is so special. You meet amazing people, go on adventures together, and help them discover the richness of South African culture and wildlife, all while building friendships that last a lifetime. At the same time, you get to learn about their cultures and hear about their journeys as future veterinarians. It’s such an honour to be part of this extraordinary committee and help make it possible for others to experience the real African life through the knowledge and skills we share.

conrad@symco.co.za

derick beytel

Treasurer 

When I first discovered SYMCO, I immediately knew it was something truly special. It brings together three of my biggest passions — connecting with people, protecting wildlife, and celebrating the natural beauty of South Africa. Being part of this committee is not just a role, but an honour that allows me to contribute to something meaningful and impactful. I am excited to help design an experience that highlights the diversity of our country, from its breathtaking landscapes to its incredible cultural richness. Most of all, I look forward to welcoming delegates from across the world, sharing unforgettable moments, and building lasting friendships while showcasing why South Africa is such a remarkable place. SYMCO 2026 can’t come soon enough!
 

derick@symco.co.za