The 3 C’s that shaped my career with purpose

On this World Environment Day, I’m reflecting on how choosing a green career isn’t just good for the planet — it’s also been the most meaningful decision of my life.

Not long ago, I had what many would call a “dream job.” It was secure, paid, and respected. It was ticking all the boxes. But inside, something was changing.

The work was valuable, but it no longer matched what I believed in most — that we need to change how we relate to nature, and that tourism must take responsibility to protect and restore the environment it depends on. And that I wanted to promote Nature Positive Tourism.

At the same time, I realised I deeply value working with and for people that treat you with respect and kindness. I thrive in small teams, in start-ups, without hierarchy and where you can build something from scratch together and see it grow.

So I left.

I stepped away from the safety of the known to focus on MOYO Training Foundation, a not-for-profit I co-founded, and offers nature-positive training. It wasn’t a reckless choice — but it wasn’t simple either. 

Looking back, three qualities have carried me through this path — the 3 C’s.

1. Courage

Work with purpose often means taking a leap — not always a big one, but a moment when you choose what feels right over what’s easy.

For me, courage meant:

• Giving up a steady income for my calling.

• Accepting uncertainty instead of stability.

• Trusting myself even when the way forward was unclear.

  
  

It’s not about being without fear — it’s about moving forward anyway, because not doing it felt worse.

2. Commitment

Purpose doesn’t appear overnight. It’s something you build over time, with patience and dedication to something bigger than yourself.

For me, commitment means more than just work — it’s about balancing the care for my family with my passion for tourism & protecting nature. I want to show that it’s possible to have a meaningful career and be present for the people who matter most.

This isn’t a side project or a quick fix. It shapes how I organise my days, the kind of work I take on, and the values I live by. Commitment is what keeps me going when things get tough — both as a parent and as someone trying to make a difference.

3. Community

This one surprised me. I thought (feared?) I was stepping into a more solitary path — but what I’ve found is a slow, steady building of connections.

Through MOYO, I’ve been meeting more and more people who share the same values — students, guides, operators, conservationists, and changemakers who believe tourism can be a force for nature, not against it.

It’s not an instant tribe, but a community that grows over time, one connection at a time. These people inspire and support me, reminding me I’m not alone on this journey.

When doubts arise (and they will), it’s these connections that help me remember why I chose MOYO...

Standing at the edge?

If you’re reading this and feeling a quiet restlessness, wondering if there’s more your work could be — here’s what I want you to know:

You don’t need a perfect plan.

You don’t need to be fearless.

You just need to start asking questions.

And when the answers come, I hope you find the courage, commitment, and community to follow them.

💬 If this resonates, I’d love to hear your story — or simply invite you to follow along. At MOYO Training, we’re building more than a Nature Positive Training foundation. We’re building a movement that proves careers can restore the planet, not just the CV. Join our community!

by: Aukje van Gerven

ed: Hayley Whyte