As a product-driven founder, Bency's career has been defined by two things: deep expertise in building intuitive technology, and an unwavering love for the African bush. His experience spans both worlds, from building his own AI startups to founding Africa’s first true wellness safari outfitter. Frustrated by a safari model that often failed to benefit local communities and protect wildlife, Bency founded Safari Planner to build a better alternative. He is on a mission to use his unique blend of experience to create a more equitable and sustainable future for African tourism.
Sadie de Pinto is a Cape Town-based digital strategist and Technical SEO expert with over two decades of experience shaping how people discover Africa online. Before co-founding Safari Planner, she led SEO and digital experience strategies for some of Africa’s most iconic travel brands, including Go2Africa.com and Discover Africa, helping connect global travellers to authentic safari experiences across the continent. At Safari Planner, Sadie blends deep technical insight with her love of Africa’s wild spaces, building intuitive, AI-powered tools that make planning safaris effortless, sustainable, and deeply personal. For her, a great safari doesn’t start when you arrive in the bush ,it begins the moment you start to dream about it.
Mayowa is driven by one core question: How can technology make a real, positive impact? This pursuit led him from biomedical science to software engineering and, ultimately, to a deep expertise in AI. He has a history of building solutions that serve, including AI tools to assist the elderly. At Safari Planner, Mayowa is channeling that passion into his most meaningful challenge yet: building the intelligent, scalable engine that powers our platform and supports the future of Africa's wildlife and people.
Ronel is a highly experienced administrator based in the pristine bushveld of South Africa. With over 20 years of experience in tourism, operations, and client-focused administration, she brings a rare blend of professionalism, adaptability, and deep local knowledge to every project. Her career spans leadership roles in conservation centres, training academies, and adventure tourism. As an adventure guide, Ronel spent years designing and managing itineraries for touring groups, ensuring seamless logistics and unforgettable experiences. Living in the bush, surrounded by rivers and mountains, fuels Ronel’s love for nature and her calm, focused work style.
Kim’s philosophy is simple: she wants you to feel Africa. With 20 years of safari travel experience across the continent, she believes a great safari goes far beyond a checklist, it’s about the people, the diverse cultures, and the impactful conservation efforts you can't just read about. Her journey into the industry was a natural extension of her passion, and her on-the-ground experience is immense, spanning Botswana, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Uganda, and more.This commitment to Africa's people is her life's work. When she's not planning trips, Kim is actively involved with Zimele, a non-profit in rural KwaZulu-Natal that helps Zulu women 'stand on their own 2 feet' and work their way out of poverty. She even guides trips to see this inspiring community work in action. Kim is also an award-winning beekeeper. She built her 500-hive pollination business during COVID, a testament to her incredible resilience and spirit.
A 30-year veteran of sustainable tourism, Paul’s invaluable and hands on experience is both practical and academic. He holds a Master's degree from UCT in Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) with a focus on tourism, giving him a rare, expert-level understanding of how to measure real-world impact. He has managed hands-on conservation projects, built and run safari lodges in Botswana such as the legendary Jacks Camp, Sandibe, and Xudum Trails. Paul has lived sustainability beyond tourism, co-founding successful renewable energy companies. As our Strategic Advisor, Paul's guidance is critical in ensuring our 'Safari for Good' promise is more than just words but rather it is a measurable, transparent, and core part of our business.
Matt is a renowned expert in building successful, scalable, community-led conservation models. As the Founder of the Global Conservation Corps (GCC), he leads the 'Future Rangers Program,' which connects over 2,300 youth weekly with conservation and leadership training on the border of Kruger Park. His work, which has already impacted over 15,000 students, is built on a deep understanding of the link between people and wildlife. An award-winning filmmaker (RHINO MAN) and biologist (MSc.), Matt is a powerful advocate for those on the frontlines of conservation and has delivered his message to international audiences and governments, including His Royal Highness Prince William. His expertise is crucial in guiding Safari Planner’s strategy for creating real, tangible upliftment for the organisations we partner with.