Tyla Saby
Chairperson
Finding peaceful places in today’s world can be challenging, but South Africa’s wilderness, surrounded by wildlife and nature, offers a unique escape. The symposium goes beyond wildlife preservation to emphasise global connections, education, and shared responsibility. It aims to unite diverse stakeholders, foster collaboration, and inspire collective action to protect our planet’s delicate ecosystems. I’m thrilled to share our beautiful country and embark on an unforgettable journey with delegates. Being on the organizing committee for this symposium is a dream come true, and I’m excited to both share conservation efforts and learn from the delegates, merging my passion for wildlife and education. SYMCO 2025 is a fantastic opportunity to connect globally and make a meaningful impact in veterinary care and conservation.
tyla@symco.co.za
Goran Budiscak
Vice Chairperson
My home South Africa. How does one begin to describe this diverse and beautiful country? It is something you need to experience on your own. Seeing is believing. South Africa’s wildlife impacts individuals differently. Its truly amazing to observe the first timer’s reaction when they experience our wildlife. The opportunity to be part of an illuminating experience is a lifelong goal of mine. I strive to gain new knowledge and what a way to learn about our wildlife and the conservation of our wildlife, alongside people with shared interests experiencing SA’s wildlife for the first time. Don’t miss out on this pivotal opportunity to make memories that will imprint on you like the stars are imprinted in the night sky of our glorious country.
goran@symco.co.za
Mishka Westraadt
IT & Design
SYMCO provides the amazing oportunity to actively take part in the conservation and preservation story of South Africa. I have such a love for my country and her diversity in people, fauna and flora. Growing up here I have had the privellage of experiencing some of the many landscapes South Africa has to offer and I have such a passion for inspiring a similar love for our country in those around me. SYMCO 2025 is bringing you the opportunity to experience our country and to build lasting memories and friendships with incredible individuals who all share a singular passion for wildlife and preserving that which we love and care for.
mishka@symco.co.za
ElanÉ Bekker
Applications & Communications
To be part of SYMCO for a second time, this time in the background and organizing the trip, is a big privilege for me. I am excited to share the beautiful diversity of our country – the landscapes, animals, and people – with delegates from all over the world. I believe the conservation work and knowledge that people are equipped with during this tour are necessary for the delegates and maintaining the contributions for South Africa’s unique wildlife. This is definitely a trip of a lifetime (speaking from experience), and I cannot wait to embark on this journey again. The impact that SYMCO will make in 2025 will be talked about in the future and I am honoured to say that I will be able to add to this success.
elane@symco.co.za
Josh Hoekstra
Applications & Communications
My passion for wildlife and conservation stems from a deep appreciation for the interconnectedness of nature and the essential role animals play in maintaining ecological balance. Protecting species and habitats gives me immense fulfillment, knowing that these efforts help preserve biodiversity for future generations. Serving on the applications and communications committee for SYMCO is not only a dream come true but also a privilege. It allows me to connect with like-minded individuals and contribute to a cause that’s close to my heart, ensuring that our shared commitment to conservation has a lasting impact.
josh@symco.co.za
Maarten van der Merwe
Speakers & Academics
There is something about the bushveld, being under open African skies and experiencing what this beautiful country has to offer that can’t be put into words. It is a great privilege to work alongside a team, to make SYMCO 2025 the best experience for everyone that is coming along. It is going to be a great experience partaking in South Africa’s reality of conservation and education and much more with like-minded people and ultimately creating life-long memories.
maarten@symco.co.za
Ella Boyce
Itinerary & Clothing
I am beyond excited to start mapping out this unforgettable adventure and share this experience with my committee members as well as delegates from across the globe! SYMCO is a once in a lifetime opportunity with the unique goal of connecting with nature, learning the importance of conservation and making memories with like-minded people. The 18-days we will be spending in this spectacular country we call our home will hopefully not only broaden and deepen our knowledge about conservation and wildlife but also impact our lives in a positive and permanent way while we carry the life lessons and memories with us forever.
ella@symco.co.za
Isabella Beyers
Itinerary & Clothing
I truly feel privileged to have grown up in South Africa. South Africa is renowned for its vast and diverse landscapes, particularly its expansive bush regions, which are home to a rich array of wildlife. From the iconic Big Five—lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalos—to a myriad of bird species and smaller animals, the country offers one of the most unique ecosystems in the world. Veterinary science plays a crucial role in the health and management of these animals, especially in conservation efforts aimed at protecting endangered species. I am honoured and excited to be part of SYMCO and as a result play a role in ensuring the delicate balance of nature is maintained, while meeting fellow veterinary students from all over the world and showing them how beautiful and special South Africa truly is. I cannot wait to embark on the incredible journey and make unforgettable memories.
isabella@symco.co.za
Loki van Niekerk
Sponsorships
Having grown up in South Africa, with such a wide variety of wildlife species and natural beauty, is such a privilege. Being exposed to wildlife from a young age and now being able to help with conservation through SYMCO, is a dream come true. As prospective veterinarians we play an essential role in the health and conservation of wildlife. Our aim through SYMCO is to position South Africa and our veterinarian services as world wide leaders. It will be a privilege to share our passion for wildlife and conservation with international delegates from all over the world. To be part of this process is a huge honour.
loki@symco.co.za
Waldo Brewis
Treasurer
When I first heard of SYMCO, I immediately knew it is something that I must be a part of! I can think of nothing else that blends my passion for people, wildlife and my country better than SYMCO. It is a great honour and privilege to serve on the committee, to plan an unforgettable experience for like-minded individuals from all over the world, showcasing the rich and diverse natural beauty of South Africa. I can’t wait to share it with all our delegates in 2025!!
