If anyone still believes retirement is about slowing down, Joan Wilkins is living proof that the opposite can be true.
A resident of Thornhill Manor in Modderfontein, Joan spends chunks of her time not in a quiet routine, but in some of South Africa’s most demanding natural environments, volunteering, building, researching and protecting wildlife as part of the SANParks Honorary Rangers.
A community that keeps moving
“There’s a misconception that retirement villages are places where people come to slow down or need constant care,” says Thornhill Manor manager Shaun Victor. “In reality, most of our residents are active, social and deeply involved in their own interests and communities.
“Residents travel, participate in social events and, in many cases, continue working or volunteering. The ‘lock-up-and-go’ lifestyle offered by the village allows them the freedom to explore, whether that’s a weekend away or, in Joan’s case, time spent in national parks across the country,” he says.
Answering the call of the wild
Joan joined the Honorary Rangers movement 15 years ago and has since dedicated hundreds of hours each year to conservation work in parks such as Kruger National Park, Mokala National Park, Marakele National Park and Mapungubwe National Park.
The role is far from symbolic. Honorary Rangers commit to at least 50 hours of service annually, though many – including Joan – far exceed this. In her case, that has meant more than 300 hours a year in the field.
“There are no perks,” Joan explains. “Apart from basic accommodation, you pay your own way and do the work because you care about conservation.”
That work varies widely. From building large greenhouse tunnels to growing vegetables for remote rangers and participating in environmental clean-ups, every project supports the broader mission of preserving South Africa’s natural heritage.
From bush kitchens to conservation projects
One of Joan’s favourite contributions is her work at the Sand River Bush Camp in the Kruger. Joan is part of the team responsible for running the camp – shopping, planning and preparing meals, and ensuring guests are comfortable in a setting with no electricity.
“We cater for everything from early morning snacks to three-course dinners,” she says. “You learn a lot about different cultures and dietary needs, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see how much guests appreciate the experience.”
The funds raised through these stays go directly back into conservation projects.
Protecting wildlife and preserving history
Joan’s work has also taken her to Jutten Island in the West Coast National Park, where she spent a week helping protect nesting seabirds such as Cape gannets and cormorants from predators.
In another project, she contributed to the preservation of the historic Campbell Hut in Skukuza, researching the area’s early inhabitants as part of a broader documentation effort.
Whether it’s chasing seals away from nesting birds or helping organise events like the Marakele Mountain Bike Race, each experience adds to what Joan describes as an ‘enriching and meaningful’ way to spend her time.
Support that reflects strength
While much of Joan’s time is spent in the bush, her commitment to people is just as evident back home at Thornhill Manor. The village’s proactive approach ensures that, alongside its active and independent lifestyle, there is meaningful support for residents when needed – and Joan is part of that balance.
“She is actively involved in Happy Chatters, an occupational therapy group run by resident volunteers, where her calm presence and lived experience make a quiet but powerful impact,” says village social worker Karen Griessel.
Having cared for her own mother, Joan understands that cognitive challenges are just one part of a person’s story. Drawing on her 40-year career as a mathematics teacher, she encourages fellow members to build confidence through small, achievable steps, helping to create an environment where people feel supported, capable and included.
Whether she is working in national parks or helping fellow residents at Happy Chatters, Joan’s time is shaped by purpose and connection.
