Esty holds an Honours degree in Wildlife Management and Ecotourism from the University of Namibia. Although she planned to pursue a master’s in environmental management, her career took off. Her journey began as a DREAMS mentor for young girls, an experience she describes as one of the most impactful, helping to build confidence and expand horizons for those facing tough circumstances. She then moved into tourism with internships at EHRA and Okutala, learning everything from building elephant-proof walls to caring for an orphaned elephant calf. At Naankuse Wildlife Sanctuary, she quickly rose from Volunteer Coordinator to Volunteer Programme Manager, overseeing one of the largest departments and managing logistics, teams, and daily operations.

In her final year of university, Esty launched her own camping business and had the chance to work closely with Laura Erculei (partner to Simone Micheletti), planning and running school trips. It was here she began learning the business side of tourism, including trip logistics and negotiation.

After Naankuse, she joined African Monarch Lodges as a Sustainability Analyst and Lodge Archer, rotating between Namwa, Kazilee, and Sijwa. She gained hands-on experience with eco-award standards and managing sustainable luxury across multiple properties. She then managed Mekenificent Guesthouse, further refining her organisational and hospitality skills, before joining the ATI team, bringing with her a wealth of experience, passion, and a deep love for nature and people.

Esty says:
What is one thing most people don’t know about you? I am a mental health advocate and got trained by Childline Lifeline on how to counsel.I am also very shy, but also very good with people. After so many presentations and leadership positions, I still get nervous when it’s my turn to speak. But it will never show.

What’s your favourite guilty pleasure snack? I am a genetically small girl who loves to eat. A lot. I definitely don’t feel guilty about it.

What is your favourite Namibian destination and why? In terms of daily living, I really love the Zambezi. Everything is a walkable distance, and the people are great. Everyone is easy to socialise with, and it’s a small, slow place compared to Windhoek. Walking to the river and just chilling there is one of my favourite things. In terms of tourism, Damaraland takes the prize for me. The constant change in the landscape is beautiful. It’s like being part of a beautiful painting. Constantly found myself on a rock mountain thanking God for his majestic creations.