Explore all things gap year through stories and anecdotes by gappers, families and experts. Fun to listen to but also jam-packed with tips and tricks for making the most of your gap year. No matter who you are or where you are on your gap year journey, you should be listening to the Gap Year Podcast! Although it is produced for Canadians, the content is universal.
Episodes
Sunday May 31, 2026
Sunday May 31, 2026
Michelle spoke with two Gapforce representatives about gap year options centered on marine conservation and game ranger training. The conversation covered how the programs work, the support Gapforce provides before and during travel, and the personal and professional value of gaining conservation experience abroad.
Key Points
- Gapforce is a UK-based gap year provider operating since 1989.
- Krista is a program advisor based in New York and supports North American applicants.
- Eve completed Gapforce’s South Africa game ranger course and now works in operations.
Programs Discussed
Marine Conservation
- Offered in Thailand and Costa Rica
- Participants join ongoing research projects
- Certifications mentioned:
- PADI scuba certifications
- SSI / RAID dive training
- Dive Master opportunities
- Dive Instructor pathway in Costa Rica
Game Ranger Course
- Based near Port Elizabeth, South Africa
- 8-week immersive course living on a reserve
- Leads to Field Guide Association of Southern Africa (FGASA) Level 1 qualification
- Includes conservation work, wildlife learning, and reserve management knowledge
- Shorter 2–4 week volunteer options are also available
Support Offered by Gapforce
- Info calls with Krista
- Pre-departure portal
- Document and packing support
- WhatsApp groups before departure
- Ongoing communication while participants are abroad
- Check-ins after the program ends
Main Themes
- Conservation work gives participants a chance to contribute to long-term projects
- Hands-on experience is more meaningful than “symbolic” volunteering
- Programs build:
- confidence
- adaptability
- cultural exchange
- practical skills
- resume value
Advice Shared
- Eve: “Don’t panic.”
- Krista: "Be adaptable and go in with an open mind."
Gapforce: https://gapforce.org/
GameRanger Program: https://gapforce.org/trips/south-africa-game-ranger
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gapforce
Connect With The Canadian Gap Year Association
- Find more resources at the Can Gap website https://www.cangap.ca/
- Follow on Instagram http://www.instagram.com/cangapassociation/
- Follow on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/ucangap
- Follow on Twitter https://twitter.com/ucangap
- Follow on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCuBit8gLXEOxaBggoGmykjQ
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