“I Am Because We Are” — Ubuntu and the Heart of Nursing Practice

A South African Nursing Study Tour

CAPE TOWN | SHIDULI PRIVATE GAME RESERVE | JOHANNESBURG

22 January – 2 February 2027

Discover South Africa, where breathtaking landscapes, powerful history, meaningful CPD and unforgettable wildlife come together in one extraordinary journey.

Outline

SYNOPSIS:

This study tour explores the African philosophy of Ubuntu, commonly expressed as “I am because we are”, and its relevance to contemporary nursing practice, teamwork and community health. Ubuntu emphasises interconnectedness, shared responsibility and the belief that individual wellbeing is inseparable from the wellbeing of others. These values align closely with the foundations of nursing, yet are often challenged by modern healthcare systems shaped by workload pressures, task-driven models of care and professional silos.

Through guided cultural experiences, community engagement and discussions with South African health professionals, participants will examine how Ubuntu is reflected in everyday healthcare delivery, family involvement, community-based services and interprofessional relationships. The tour will explore how historical, social and economic factors have shaped health systems in South Africa, and how collective approaches to care continue to influence health practices across hospital, primary care and community settings.

Participants will be encouraged to reflect on how Ubuntu contrasts with, complements or challenges Australian healthcare models, particularly in relation to professional boundaries, teamwork, cultural safety, patient-centred care and workforce wellbeing.

The study tour will also consider how nurses can incorporate principles of relational practice, shared decision-making and community connection into their own workplaces without compromising professional standards or safety.

This program is designed to support nurses to think differently about care delivery, leadership and professional identity, using Ubuntu as a lens to re-examine what it means to work in a profession built on connection, compassion and collective responsibility — even within complex, high-pressure health systems.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

On completion of this study tour, participants will be able to:

Explain the core principles of Ubuntu and analyse how this philosophy influences healthcare relationships, teamwork and community-based models of care in South Africa.
Critically compare Ubuntu-informed approaches to care with Australian nursing practice, identifying similarities, differences and implications for patient-centred and culturally responsive care.
Evaluate how social, historical and economic factors shape health service delivery and health outcomes in South African communities, and reflect on parallels within Australian healthcare contexts.
Identify practical strategies for integrating relational, community-focused principles into everyday nursing practice while maintaining professional standards, safety and ethical responsibilities.

This educational content has been developed specifically for this study tour by the program provider. While informed by established cultural concepts and contemporary nursing practice frameworks, the material represents original work and has not been reproduced from existing publications or training programs.

CPD Hours: 35

LEAD ACADEMIC FACILITATOR:

Professor Mavis Mulaudzi

BCur(Unisa),B Cur Hons(Unisa), M Cur(Unisa)D Littet Phil(Unisa), Post Graduate Diploma in Health Research Ethics(UCT), R/M, R/M

Professor Fhumulani Mavis Mulaudzi is the South African Research Chair (SARChI) in the Ubuntu Community Model in Nursing and a Professor of Nursing at the University of Pretoria. With more than 37 years of professional experience, she is widely recognised for her leadership, scholarship, and commitment to advancing nursing practice in South Africa and beyond.

Professor Mulaudzi served for a decade as Head of the Department of Nursing Science and later spent five years as Chair of the School of Health Care Sciences. Her career has been marked by significant leadership roles across national, and international nursing and health organisations, reflecting her strong influence on policy, education, and professional development.

She has held prominent positions including Chairperson of the Forum for University Nursing Deans in South Africa (FUNDISA), a QUAD member of the African Regulatory Committee, African Regional Coordinator of Sigma Theta Tau, President of the Chi Xi at-Large Chapter, and Treasurer of the Committee of South African Health Science Deans. She is also a founding member of the Academy of Science Nursing in South Africa (ANSA) and has served three terms on the CSIR Research Committee. In addition, she has been Deputy Chair of Bamboo Bridge International, an organisation that promotes traditional healing and complementary approaches to care.

Professor Mulaudzi’s contribution to research has been widely recognised. She was a runner-up for the Distinguished Women in Science Award in 2011 for her work in Indigenous Knowledge Systems, and she is currently a C3-rated researcher with the National Research Foundation (NRF). Her research focuses on human rights and ethics, HIV and AIDS, reproductive health, and Indigenous Knowledge Systems, with a strong emphasis on the philosophy of Ubuntu in nursing ethics and practice.

She currently serves as Editor-in-Chief of Curationis, a leading nursing journal, is a member of the SciELO Advisory Board, and holds the position of Deputy President of the Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (DENOSA). Her expertise and influence are further reflected in her frequent invitations to deliver keynote addresses at national and international conferences.

WENDY MCINTOSH

RGN, RMHN, Grad. Dip MH, MN, Cert IV Workplace Assessment & Training, Group Leadership Cert, MRCNA, MANZCMHN, AANZPA

Establishing her own company Davaar Consultancy Training & Development in 2005, Wendy has over 30 years as a health professional (clinical, education and research), twenty-five of those years in mental health. Areas of specific interest and passion for Wendy include: professional supervision, professional boundaries, professional identity, links between childhood trauma and mental illness and workplace bullying.

Wendy has over 20 years as a psychodrama trainee – a life long learning. She is committed to using experiential learning in the work she does with individuals and groups.

Regularly presenting workshops at national & International conferences, Wendy consistently receives feedback on her passion, knowledge and creativity as a presenter & facilitator. Wendy is continually integrating learning and insights she gains from the work she does in professional boundaries.

Wendy has developed internet training tools and education packages for individuals/organisations and delivers webinars for a variety of organisations nationally and internationally. With the assistance of six podcast episodes titled ‘Professional Boundaries’, Wendy is exploring and guiding listeners on their own personal and reflective journey through boundaries.
This series of professional boundaries podcasts has been picked up by the School of Health and Social Care, Edinburgh Napier University to be used in their curriculum. Further podcasts are currently in production.

Wendy was Charter President of the Global Nurses & Midwives Rotary Club. An innovative, diverse and inclusive Rotary Club whose members come from around the world.

Dr T Mabuda

Dr Tendani Mabuda has a Diploma in General (Psychiatry, Community) and Midwifery Nursing Science (Accoucheur) – Venda Nursing College (1991); BA Cur degree – UNISA (1998); Master’s degree in health sciences – UNISA (2006) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) WITS (2017). He worked as a Nurse Manager in various hospitals within the Limpopo Province until 2006.

In 2007 he was appointed as the Director of Nursing – Department of Health in the Western Cape Provincial Government. He is a former Registrar of the South African Nursing Council (2010-2015) and is currently employed by the Provincial Department of Health and Wellness – Western Cape as the Director of Nursing Education and the Western Cape College of Nursing.

Makhotso Merriam RALEHIKE, PhD Student of University of Pretoria,

Makhotso Merriam Ralehike is a South African nursing professional, occupational health practitioner, nurse educator, and bioethics specialist affiliated with the University of Pretoria. Her academic and professional activities focus on occupational health, nursing ethics, healthcare quality, rural health systems, patient safety, and evidence-based nursing practice. Through clinical service, educational leadership, and emerging scholarly contributions, she has developed expertise relevant to contemporary healthcare challenges and nursing policy development.

OUR CONVENOR:

SAMANTHA KENNINGTON, Manager, Education at Sea & Travel Direct Australia

Samantha Kennington is the Manager of Education at Sea and Travel Direct Australia, where she oversees the development and delivery of international study tours and travel programs for nurses, midwives and other healthcare professionals.

With a background in event management, Samantha brings a practical, hands-on approach to organising complex programs and creating memorable group experiences. She is known for her attention to detail, high standards and ability to bring together all the elements that make a group experience run seamlessly.

She particularly enjoys the social side of group travel — getting to know guests, sharing experiences and making sure everyone feels comfortable, informed and included along the way.

Known for her friendly nature, dry sense of humour and calm approach, Samantha looks forward to welcoming you to South Africa and sharing what promises to be a memorable journey together.

The Program: The program content is provided by expert Nurse Educators with extensive clinical and education experience. The education content provided in this program meets the same exacting standards as anything offered in an Australian land-based program. Education at Sea and The Nurses for Nurses Network combine great education with fabulous travel adventures. We have taken a holistic approach to Nursing Continuing Professional Development (CPD) to ensure you get the most out of your education-travel experience.

The Online Library: The Library has been created so that you have access to some of the study tour content prior to our departure. The documents, including self-directed activities and webinars, from our Presenter, are provided so that you can create your own conference experience and access information and sessions of interest prior to the commencement of the Conference program.

Disclaimer: The opinions and statements of facts expressed in the Papers in these proceedings are those of the Authors and do not necessarily represent those of Education at Sea (EAS) or the Nurses for Nurses Network (NfNN), the editors, the organising committee or the supporters of this Conference. The organisers can accept no responsibility for errors or omissions in the individual papers. Sessions are correct at time of publication. Sessions are subject to change without notice due to circumstances beyond the control of the organisers. EAS and NfNN reserves the right to alter charges, cancel, postpone, change or withdraw the product or service at any time.

Itinerary

Day and Location	Events
DAY 1: 22nd January 2027 Radisson RED Cape Town V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa Inclusions: Drinks reception	Arrive in Cape Town – Welcome to South Africa! Voted one of the best places in the world to visit by the prestigious The New York Times, Cape Town is among South Africa’s most popular destinations, offering a vibrant blend of multicultural city life, outdoor adventure, and coastal relaxation. Set on the city’s iconic waterfront, Radisson RED Cape Town V&A Waterfront delivers a true love-at-first-sight experience. A haven for art lovers, the hotel features bold artworks throughout every room and suite. Guests can enjoy Cape Town’s craft food and drink scene at OUIBar + KTCHN, or unwind at the rooftop pool and terrace, soaking in sweeping views across the waterfront and beyond. 5pm to 6pm: Welcome registration function
DAY 2: 23rd January 2027 Radisson RED Cape Town V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa Inclusions: Breakfast, Morning Tea, Lunch CPD hours: 8 face to face	8am to 9am: Professor Mavis Mulaudzi The core principles of Ubuntu and analyse how this philosophy influences healthcare relationships, teamwork and community-based models of care in South Africa This session explores the core principles of Ubuntu — a philosophy centred on shared humanity, dignity, and collective responsibility — and how it actively shapes healthcare practice in South Africa. Drawing on her own research and professional experience, Mavis will examine how Ubuntu influences relationships between patients and clinicians, supports collaborative teamwork, and underpins community-based models of care. The session will highlight how trust, respect, and mutual accountability are embedded in everyday clinical interactions and service delivery, particularly in settings where community engagement is essential to health outcomes. Participants will also be invited to reflect on how Ubuntu-informed approaches to care and teamwork may offer valuable insights for nursing practice in other healthcare systems, including Australia. 9am to 10am: Dr Wendy McIntosh and Professor Mavis Mulaudzi Critically compare Ubuntu-informed approaches to care with everyday nursing practice in Australia. Building on the previous session, this interactive workshop invites participants to critically compare Ubuntu-informed approaches to care with everyday nursing practice in Australia. Through guided discussion, case scenarios, and group reflection, nurses will explore where relational, community-centred values already exist in Australian healthcare — and where system structures, time pressures, and professional boundaries create different approaches to care. The workshop will examine how culture, family involvement, communication styles, and decision-making differ across contexts, and what this means for patient-centred and culturally responsive practice. Participants will be encouraged to identify practical insights that can inform their own clinical work, leadership behaviours, and interactions with diverse patient communities back home. 10am to 10.30am: Break 10.30 to 11.15am: Dr T Mabuda Nursing Education in South Africa: History, Scope of Practice and the Influence of Ubuntu This session provides an overview of how nursing education has evolved in South Africa and how nurses are currently trained, regulated, and deployed across the health system. Key historical influences on training pathways and explain the current qualification levels, professional categories, and specialist roles, including the presence and scope of advanced practice and nurse practitioner–type roles, and the degree of clinical autonomy nurses hold in different settings. Participants will explore how nurses are prepared for practice in hospitals, primary healthcare, and community-based services, with particular attention to workforce needs in rural and underserved areas. The session will also examine how the principles of Ubuntu are incorporated into nursing education, shaping professional identity, ethical practice, teamwork, and community engagement from student training through to workforce practice. The session will conclude with an overview of what has worked well within South African nursing education, what challenges remain, and what reforms are currently underway. Comparisons with Australian nursing education and scope of practice will support reflection on how education systems influence nursing roles, responsibility, and models of care across different healthcare contexts. 11.15am to 12pm: Dr Wendy McIntosh “I am because we are” is it possible to navigate professional boundaries in Australian nursing and midwifery through the lens of Ubuntu. In Australian healthcare professional boundaries are integral to maintaining a place of safety between the power of a health professional and the vulnerability of the patient. Conversely the Ubuntu model prioritises interconnectedness and deep relational humanness as the foundation of ethical care. This presentation explores whether these two seemingly contradictory frameworks can co-exist in contemporary Australian healthcare and if so what is the next step? 12pm to 1pm: Lunch Visit to local hospital: We will visit a local hospital and review the similarities and differences – this is an opportunity to learn from each other. Evening: GOLD Restaurant for Dinner & Live Entertainment At 6:00 pm, we will be picked up and transferred to GOLD Restaurant for an immersive dining experience often described as a “taste safari.” This vibrant evening celebrates African culture through food, music, and storytelling in a lively yet welcoming setting. Guests will enjoy a 14-course set menu showcasing authentic Cape Malay and African cuisine, paired with live performances unfolding throughout the restaurant. From praise singing and Malian puppetry to marimba rhythms and traditional dance, the entertainment brings African stories to life right at your table. Before dinner, feel the heartbeat of Africa during an interactive djembe drumming session, where guests are invited to join in and connect through rhythm. It’s an inspiring and sensory-rich introduction to the spirit of Africa, blending culture, cuisine, and celebration into a memorable evening.
DAY 3: 24th January 2027 Radisson RED Cape Town V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch CPD Hours: 4 face to face	Full Day Cape Peninsula Tour with visit to the Heart Museum. We depart at 8:30am for a scenic journey along the Cape Peninsula, starting with one of South Africa’s most iconic coastal roads. Chapman’s Peak Drive: Travel along the world-famous Chapman’s Peak Drive, a spectacular 9 km coastal road linking Hout Bay and Noordhoek. Built during the First World War, the route winds along dramatic cliffs with sweeping ocean views, making it one of the most scenic marine drives in the world. Cape Point: Visit Cape Point, located at the south-western tip of the Cape Peninsula, where rugged coastline and expansive ocean views define the landscape. Time is allocated to enjoy the viewpoints and lighthouse area. Guests will have the option to take the Flying Dutchman Funicular, offering an easy and scenic ride from the car park to the historic lighthouse and panoramic viewing points. Boulders Beach: Continue to Boulders Beach, home to a protected colony of African penguins. Boardwalks allow for close viewing of the penguins in their natural habitat, with the surrounding granite boulders and sheltered bay providing a unique coastal setting. Networking Lunch: Seaforth Restaurant (Set Menu) Enjoy lunch at Seaforth Restaurant, perfectly positioned on the white sands of Seaforth Beach with uninterrupted ocean and mountain views. Penguins are often seen swimming nearby. Menu includes: Starter: Summer Salad or Tomato-based Soup Main: False Bay Seafood Platter Dessert: Malva Pudding with Crème Anglaise or Chocolate Mousse Tea / Coffee A vegetarian option is available with prior notice. Additional drinks at own expense Groote Schuur Hospital – Tour of the Heart Museum: The Heart of Cape Town Museum is situated in the original operating rooms where the world’s first heart transplant was performed by Professor Christiaan Barnard and his team, on 3rd December 1967. The operating rooms have been set up to look exactly as they did at the time and the whole team of doctors and nurses are represented in the form of very lifelike models, much like Madame Tussaud’s in London. The tours take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and are conducted by experienced on-site tour guides who recreate all the drama of that night in each exhibition room.
DAY 4: 25th January 2027 Radisson RED Cape Town V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Wine Tasting	Full Day Private Winelands Tour including Lunch While South Africa’s fertile valleys are world famous for their crisp white and classic French-style red wines, the area is also a treasury of rustic beauty and sprawling estates shaded by giant oak trees. The day starts with a visit to Paarl where guests will be struck by the beauty of the Valley, the pristine blue sky, the rolling vineyards, and the Pearl of Paarl set high above the valley. Paarl made headlines when President Mandela was released from the Groot Drakenstein prison (formerly known as Victor Verster prison), on the outskirts of the town, to freedom and the start of the new South Africa. Guests will enjoy a wine tasting at one of the local estates. From Paarl, guests will continue north-west to the beautiful village of Franschhoek, near the Drakenstein Mountains founded in 1688 by French immigrants fleeing the Huguenot religious persecution in Europe. A memorial in the town commemorates the arrival of these early settlers who helped develop the wines sought after by Napoleon, Bismarck, and royalty such as Edward VII, the Prince of Wales. Here we will stop for lunch and another wine tasting at a local vineyard. Guests will then head to Stellenbosch, the second oldest town in South Africa and the historic heart of the country’s wine region. In 1679, Dutch East India Company governor Simon van der Stel, recognized the fertility of this long valley on the banks of the Eerste River, as perfect for vineyards. The rest is history, which has been carefully cultivated in this town. A gracious blend of 18th-century Cape Dutch, Georgian and Victorian buildings is evident on Dorp Street, where massive oaks still shade original water furrows. Enjoy a final wine tasting before returning to Cape Town. Enjoy the rest of the day at your own leisure.
DAY 5: 26th January 2027 Shiduli Private Game Reserve Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner CPD Hours: 4 via the online library	Cape Town ✈️Limpopo – Your Safari Begins! 7am – Transfer to Cape Town International Airport for your flight to Hoedspruit Airport (HDS). On arrival in Hoedspruit, transfer to Shiduli Private Game Reserve, set in the wildlife-rich Limpopo province. Limpopo is home to some of South Africa’s finest nature reserves and offers outstanding opportunities for wildlife viewing. Bordering the world-famous Kruger National Park, the region is known for its dramatic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and strong sense of place. Nearby Phalaborwa is the only town in South Africa that borders Kruger, where everyday life often unfolds alongside roaming wildlife. This is a land of remarkable sights and sounds — from golden sunsets over the bushveld to the flavours of local cuisine — where African culture, landscape, and wildlife come together. Self Directed Learning: An online library is provided for self-directed learning for you. The library includes various webinars, podcasts, and articles to provide you with information regarding the various concepts that are identified throughout the study tour. 4pm – First Game Drive Head out on your first safari experience, an unforgettable introduction to the African bush as the day cools and wildlife becomes active. Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner back at the reserve
DAY 6: 27th January 2027 Shiduli Private Game Reserve Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner CPD hours: 4 via the online library	Wake to the sounds of the African bush at Shiduli Private Game Lodge, set within the pristine Karongwe Game Reserve. This diverse reserve is home to the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo—along with cheetah and hippo. Morning Game Drive: 5.30am to 8.45am Venture out at first light when wildlife is most active. Sightings may include elephant herds moving through the bush, giraffe browsing acacia trees, zebra and antelope grazing the plains, and predators returning from the night’s hunt. Late Morning: Breakfast and leisure time at the lodge—relax by the pool or enjoy the peaceful surrounds. Self directed Learning: An online library is provided for self-directed learning for you. The library includes various webinars, podcasts, and articles to provide you with information regarding the various concepts that are identified throughout the study tour. Lunch: Enjoy a relaxed lunch at the reserve Afternoon Game Drive: 4pm to 7pm As temperatures cool, look out for lions, leopards, hyena, and plains game gathering near water sources. End the drive with sundowners at sunset in the bush—the enjoyable kind with drinks and views… not the medical reference 😉 Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner back at the reserve
DAY 7: 28th January 2027 Shiduli Private Game Reserve Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner CPD Hours: 4 via the online library	A full day to immerse yourself in Africa untamed, balanced with comfort and quiet moments. Morning Game Drive: 5.30am to 8.45am Search for elusive species such as leopard and cheetah, alongside warthog, kudu, impala, wildebeest, and a wide variety of birdlife. Late Morning: Breakfast and leisure time at the lodge—relax by the pool or enjoy the peaceful surrounds. Self directed Learning: An online library is provided for self-directed learning for you. The library includes various webinars, podcasts, and articles to provide you with information regarding the various concepts that are identified throughout the study tour. Afternoon Game Drive: 4pm to 7pm Another sunset safari, capped off with sundowners in the bush—again, purely celebratory, very non-clinical. Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner back at the reserve
DAY 8: 29th January 2027 Shiduli Private Game Reserve Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner	Your last full day captures the rhythm of safari living—early mornings, relaxed afternoons, and unforgettable evenings. Morning Game Drive: 5.30am to 8.45am A final opportunity to spot rhino, elephant, lion, and perhaps a last leopard sighting. Late Morning: Breakfast and leisure time at the lodge—relax by the pool or enjoy the peaceful surrounds. Lunch: Enjoy a relaxed lunch at the reserve Afternoon Game Drive: 4pm to 7pm Conclude with a farewell safari and final sundowners at sunset—the only side effect is smiling. Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner back at the reserve
DAY 9: 30th January 2027 Protea Hotel Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton Inclusions: Breakfast	Karongwe 🚌 Johannesburg (Sandton) Depart Shiduli Private Game Reserve for the journey to Johannesburg. The road transfer to Protea Hotel Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton takes approximately 6.5 hours, including a comfort break en route. Johannesburg is a vast and fascinating city where contrasts come together to create a place of energy, diversity, and character. Located in Gauteng, it is home to the world’s largest urban forest, with around 10 million trees, and serves as South Africa’s economic heart, offering some of the country’s best shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. From important historical sites such as the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill to the buzz of Nelson Mandela Square and Sandton City, there is plenty to discover. For those wanting a deeper cultural experience, township tours and a visit to the creative Maboneng Precinct — a lively hub of art, food, and urban culture — offer a rewarding glimpse into the city’s vibrant spirit.
DAY 10: 31st January 2027 Protea Hotel Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton Inclusions: Breakfast CPD Hours: 6 face to face	8am to 9am: Panel Discussion Discussion of Private, Public, and Community based health care delivery. Does our focus on the modern health care system occur at the expense of indigenous health practices. 9am to 10am: Makhotso Ralehike Water Scarsity and it’s Impact on the health care system (WASH water, sanitation, and hygiene) In this session Makhotso will discuss the implications of water scarcity and the impact on health care delivery from basic infection control measures through to the broader healthcare system. 10am to 10.30am: Break 10.30am to 12pm: Dr Wendy McIntosh Compare and contrast the nuances of Professional Boundaries in both South Africa and Australia. Drawing on her extensive understanding of professional boundaries within Australian nursing practice, Dr Wendy McIntosh will explore how these concepts compare within the South African healthcare context. This one-hour session considers how culture, community, professional expectations and healthcare environments may influence boundaries differently, providing participants with an opportunity to compare the two systems and reflect on the nuances of professional relationships across different cultural and clinical settings. 12pm to 1pm: Lunch 1pm: Visit to local hospital This afternoon we will be visiting one of the major hospitals in the area and will have the opportunity to tour the facility as well as meet with our South African colleagues.
DAY 11: 1st February 2027 Protea Hotel Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch CPD hours: 5 face to face	Full Day Johannesburg City Orientation and Soweto Tour including Healthcare facility visit Hector Pieterson Museum Visit the Hector Pieterson Museum, which commemorates the events of 16 June 1976, when schoolchildren protested against the imposition of Afrikaans as the medium of instruction. The uprising became a pivotal moment in the anti-apartheid struggle. Twelve-year-old Hector Pieterson, who was killed during the protest, has come to symbolise the courage of the youth who stood against injustice. Today, 16 June is marked nationally as Youth Day in remembrance of those who lost their lives. Mandela House – Orlando West Continue to Mandela House, a national monument and former home of Nelson Mandela from 1946 through the 1990s. Managed by the Soweto Heritage Trust, the house has been carefully restored and features multimedia and audio-visual displays that offer insight into Mandela’s family life and personal journey. This visit provides a deeply meaningful connection to South Africa’s political and social history. Networking Lunch at Sakhumzi Restaurant Enjoy lunch at Sakhumzi Restaurant, a well-known local favourite in the heart of Soweto. The restaurant serves traditional South African cuisine such as pap and vleis, chakalaka, and boerewors, all within a lively and welcoming setting that reflects the vibrant spirit of the community Afternoon: Visit to local hospital This afternoon we will be visiting one of the hospitals in the area and will have the opportunity to tour the facility as well as meet with our South African colleagues.
DAY 12: 2nd February 2027 Inclusions: Breakfast	We say our final goodbyes – safe travels

Day and Location

Events

DAY 1: 22nd January 2027

Radisson RED Cape Town V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa

Inclusions: Drinks reception

Arrive in Cape Town – Welcome to South Africa!

Voted one of the best places in the world to visit by the prestigious The New York Times, Cape Town is among South Africa’s most popular destinations, offering a vibrant blend of multicultural city life, outdoor adventure, and coastal relaxation.

Set on the city’s iconic waterfront, Radisson RED Cape Town V&A Waterfront delivers a true love-at-first-sight experience. A haven for art lovers, the hotel features bold artworks throughout every room and suite. Guests can enjoy Cape Town’s craft food and drink scene at OUIBar + KTCHN, or unwind at the rooftop pool and terrace, soaking in sweeping views across the waterfront and beyond.

5pm to 6pm: Welcome registration function

DAY 2: 23rd January 2027

Radisson RED Cape Town V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa

Inclusions: Breakfast, Morning Tea, Lunch

CPD hours: 8 face to face

8am to 9am: Professor Mavis Mulaudzi

The core principles of Ubuntu and analyse how this philosophy influences healthcare relationships, teamwork and community-based models of care in South Africa

This session explores the core principles of Ubuntu — a philosophy centred on shared humanity, dignity, and collective responsibility — and how it actively shapes healthcare practice in South Africa. Drawing on her own research and professional experience, Mavis will examine how Ubuntu influences relationships between patients and clinicians, supports collaborative teamwork, and underpins community-based models of care.

The session will highlight how trust, respect, and mutual accountability are embedded in everyday clinical interactions and service delivery, particularly in settings where community engagement is essential to health outcomes. Participants will also be invited to reflect on how Ubuntu-informed approaches to care and teamwork may offer valuable insights for nursing practice in other healthcare systems, including Australia.

9am to 10am: Dr Wendy McIntosh and Professor Mavis Mulaudzi

Critically compare Ubuntu-informed approaches to care with everyday nursing practice in Australia.

Building on the previous session, this interactive workshop invites participants to critically compare Ubuntu-informed approaches to care with everyday nursing practice in Australia. Through guided discussion, case scenarios, and group reflection, nurses will explore where relational, community-centred values already exist in Australian healthcare — and where system structures, time pressures, and professional boundaries create different approaches to care.

The workshop will examine how culture, family involvement, communication styles, and decision-making differ across contexts, and what this means for patient-centred and culturally responsive practice. Participants will be encouraged to identify practical insights that can inform their own clinical work, leadership behaviours, and interactions with diverse patient communities back home.

10am to 10.30am: Break

10.30 to 11.15am: Dr T Mabuda

Nursing Education in South Africa: History, Scope of Practice and the Influence of Ubuntu

This session provides an overview of how nursing education has evolved in South Africa and how nurses are currently trained, regulated, and deployed across the health system. Key historical influences on training pathways and explain the current qualification levels, professional categories, and specialist roles, including the presence and scope of advanced practice and nurse practitioner–type roles, and the degree of clinical autonomy nurses hold in different settings.

Participants will explore how nurses are prepared for practice in hospitals, primary healthcare, and community-based services, with particular attention to workforce needs in rural and underserved areas. The session will also examine how the principles of Ubuntu are incorporated into nursing education, shaping professional identity, ethical practice, teamwork, and community engagement from student training through to workforce practice.

The session will conclude with an overview of what has worked well within South African nursing education, what challenges remain, and what reforms are currently underway. Comparisons with Australian nursing education and scope of practice will support reflection on how education systems influence nursing roles, responsibility, and models of care across different healthcare contexts.

11.15am to 12pm: Dr Wendy McIntosh

“I am because we are” is it possible to navigate professional boundaries in Australian nursing and midwifery through the lens of Ubuntu.

In Australian healthcare professional boundaries are integral to maintaining a place of safety between the power of a health professional and the vulnerability of the patient. Conversely the Ubuntu model prioritises interconnectedness and deep relational humanness as the foundation of ethical care. This presentation explores whether these two seemingly contradictory frameworks can co-exist in contemporary Australian healthcare and if so what is the next step?

12pm to 1pm: Lunch

Visit to local hospital:

We will visit a local hospital and review the similarities and differences – this is an opportunity to learn from each other.

Evening: GOLD Restaurant for Dinner & Live Entertainment

At 6:00 pm, we will be picked up and transferred to GOLD Restaurant for an immersive dining experience often described as a “taste safari.” This vibrant evening celebrates African culture through food, music, and storytelling in a lively yet welcoming setting.

Guests will enjoy a 14-course set menu showcasing authentic Cape Malay and African cuisine, paired with live performances unfolding throughout the restaurant. From praise singing and Malian puppetry to marimba rhythms and traditional dance, the entertainment brings African stories to life right at your table.

Before dinner, feel the heartbeat of Africa during an interactive djembe drumming session, where guests are invited to join in and connect through rhythm. It’s an inspiring and sensory-rich introduction to the spirit of Africa, blending culture, cuisine, and celebration into a memorable evening.

DAY 3: 24th January 2027

Radisson RED Cape Town V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch

CPD Hours: 4 face to face

Full Day Cape Peninsula Tour with visit to the Heart Museum.

We depart at 8:30am for a scenic journey along the Cape Peninsula, starting with one of South Africa’s most iconic coastal roads.

Chapman’s Peak Drive:

Travel along the world-famous Chapman’s Peak Drive, a spectacular 9 km coastal road linking Hout Bay and Noordhoek. Built during the First World War, the route winds along dramatic cliffs with sweeping ocean views, making it one of the most scenic marine drives in the world.

Cape Point:

Visit Cape Point, located at the south-western tip of the Cape Peninsula, where rugged coastline and expansive ocean views define the landscape. Time is allocated to enjoy the viewpoints and lighthouse area.

Guests will have the option to take the Flying Dutchman Funicular, offering an easy and scenic ride from the car park to the historic lighthouse and panoramic viewing points.

Boulders Beach:

Continue to Boulders Beach, home to a protected colony of African penguins. Boardwalks allow for close viewing of the penguins in their natural habitat, with the surrounding granite boulders and sheltered bay providing a unique coastal setting.

Networking Lunch: Seaforth Restaurant (Set Menu)

Enjoy lunch at Seaforth Restaurant, perfectly positioned on the white sands of Seaforth Beach with uninterrupted ocean and mountain views. Penguins are often seen swimming nearby.

Menu includes:

Starter: Summer Salad or Tomato-based Soup
Main: False Bay Seafood Platter
Dessert: Malva Pudding with Crème Anglaise or Chocolate Mousse
Tea / Coffee

*A vegetarian option is available with prior notice.

*Additional drinks at own expense

Groote Schuur Hospital – Tour of the Heart Museum:

The Heart of Cape Town Museum is situated in the original operating rooms where the world’s first heart transplant was performed by Professor Christiaan Barnard and his team, on 3rd December 1967. The operating rooms have been set up to look exactly as they did at the time and the whole team of doctors and nurses are represented in the form of very lifelike models, much like Madame Tussaud’s in London. The tours take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours and are conducted by experienced on-site tour guides who recreate all the drama of that night in each exhibition room.

DAY 4: 25th January 2027

Radisson RED Cape Town V&A Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Wine Tasting

Full Day Private Winelands Tour including Lunch

While South Africa’s fertile valleys are world famous for their crisp white and classic French-style red wines, the area is also a treasury of rustic beauty and sprawling estates shaded by giant oak trees.

The day starts with a visit to Paarl where guests will be struck by the beauty of the Valley, the pristine blue sky, the rolling vineyards, and the Pearl of Paarl set high above the valley. Paarl made headlines when President Mandela was released from the Groot Drakenstein prison (formerly known as Victor Verster prison), on the outskirts of the town, to freedom and the start of the new South Africa. Guests will enjoy a wine tasting at one of the local estates.

From Paarl, guests will continue north-west to the beautiful village of Franschhoek, near the Drakenstein Mountains founded in 1688 by French immigrants fleeing the Huguenot religious persecution in Europe. A memorial in the town commemorates the arrival of these early settlers who helped develop the wines sought after by Napoleon, Bismarck, and royalty such as Edward VII, the Prince of Wales. Here we will stop for lunch and another wine tasting at a local vineyard.

Guests will then head to Stellenbosch, the second oldest town in South Africa and the historic heart of the country’s wine region. In 1679, Dutch East India Company governor Simon van der Stel, recognized the fertility of this long valley on the banks of the Eerste River, as perfect for vineyards. The rest is history, which has been carefully cultivated in this town. A gracious blend of 18th-century Cape Dutch, Georgian and Victorian buildings is evident on Dorp Street, where massive oaks still shade original water furrows. Enjoy a final wine tasting before returning to Cape Town.

Enjoy the rest of the day at your own leisure.

DAY 5: 26th January 2027

Shiduli Private Game Reserve

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

CPD Hours: 4 via the online library

Cape Town ✈️Limpopo – Your Safari Begins!

7am – Transfer to Cape Town International Airport for your flight to Hoedspruit Airport (HDS).

On arrival in Hoedspruit, transfer to Shiduli Private Game Reserve, set in the wildlife-rich Limpopo province.

Limpopo is home to some of South Africa’s finest nature reserves and offers outstanding opportunities for wildlife viewing. Bordering the world-famous Kruger National Park, the region is known for its dramatic landscapes, rich biodiversity, and strong sense of place. Nearby Phalaborwa is the only town in South Africa that borders Kruger, where everyday life often unfolds alongside roaming wildlife.

This is a land of remarkable sights and sounds — from golden sunsets over the bushveld to the flavours of local cuisine — where African culture, landscape, and wildlife come together.

Self Directed Learning:

An online library is provided for self-directed learning for you.

The library includes various webinars, podcasts, and articles to provide you with information regarding the various concepts that are identified throughout the study tour.

4pm – First Game Drive

Head out on your first safari experience, an unforgettable introduction to the African bush as the day cools and wildlife becomes active.

Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner back at the reserve

DAY 6: 27th January 2027

Shiduli Private Game Reserve

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

CPD hours: 4 via the online library

Wake to the sounds of the African bush at Shiduli Private Game Lodge, set within the pristine Karongwe Game Reserve. This diverse reserve is home to the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo—along with cheetah and hippo.

Morning Game Drive: 5.30am to 8.45am

Venture out at first light when wildlife is most active. Sightings may include elephant herds moving through the bush, giraffe browsing acacia trees, zebra and antelope grazing the plains, and predators returning from the night’s hunt.

Late Morning: Breakfast and leisure time at the lodge—relax by the pool or enjoy the peaceful surrounds.

Self directed Learning:

An online library is provided for self-directed learning for you.

The library includes various webinars, podcasts, and articles to provide you with information regarding the various concepts that are identified throughout the study tour.

Lunch: Enjoy a relaxed lunch at the reserve

Afternoon Game Drive: 4pm to 7pm

As temperatures cool, look out for lions, leopards, hyena, and plains game gathering near water sources. End the drive with sundowners at sunset in the bush—the enjoyable kind with drinks and views… not the medical reference 😉

Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner back at the reserve

DAY 7: 28th January 2027

Shiduli Private Game Reserve

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

CPD Hours: 4 via the online library

A full day to immerse yourself in Africa untamed, balanced with comfort and quiet moments.

Morning Game Drive: 5.30am to 8.45am

Search for elusive species such as leopard and cheetah, alongside warthog, kudu, impala, wildebeest, and a wide variety of birdlife.

Late Morning: Breakfast and leisure time at the lodge—relax by the pool or enjoy the peaceful surrounds.

Self directed Learning:

An online library is provided for self-directed learning for you.

The library includes various webinars, podcasts, and articles to provide you with information regarding the various concepts that are identified throughout the study tour.

Afternoon Game Drive: 4pm to 7pm

Another sunset safari, capped off with sundowners in the bush—again, purely celebratory, very non-clinical.

Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner back at the reserve

DAY 8: 29th January 2027

Shiduli Private Game Reserve

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Your last full day captures the rhythm of safari living—early mornings, relaxed afternoons, and unforgettable evenings.

Morning Game Drive: 5.30am to 8.45am

A final opportunity to spot rhino, elephant, lion, and perhaps a last leopard sighting.

Late Morning: Breakfast and leisure time at the lodge—relax by the pool or enjoy the peaceful surrounds.

Lunch: Enjoy a relaxed lunch at the reserve

Afternoon Game Drive: 4pm to 7pm

Conclude with a farewell safari and final sundowners at sunset—the only side effect is smiling.

Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner back at the reserve

DAY 9: 30th January 2027

Protea Hotel Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton

Inclusions: Breakfast

Karongwe 🚌 Johannesburg (Sandton)

Depart Shiduli Private Game Reserve for the journey to Johannesburg. The road transfer to Protea Hotel Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton takes approximately 6.5 hours, including a comfort break en route.

Johannesburg is a vast and fascinating city where contrasts come together to create a place of energy, diversity, and character. Located in Gauteng, it is home to the world’s largest urban forest, with around 10 million trees, and serves as South Africa’s economic heart, offering some of the country’s best shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.

From important historical sites such as the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill to the buzz of Nelson Mandela Square and Sandton City, there is plenty to discover. For those wanting a deeper cultural experience, township tours and a visit to the creative Maboneng Precinct — a lively hub of art, food, and urban culture — offer a rewarding glimpse into the city’s vibrant spirit.

DAY 10: 31st January 2027

Protea Hotel Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton

Inclusions: Breakfast

CPD Hours: 6 face to face

8am to 9am: Panel Discussion

Discussion of Private, Public, and Community based health care delivery. Does our focus on the modern health care system occur at the expense of indigenous health practices.

9am to 10am: Makhotso Ralehike

Water Scarsity and it’s Impact on the health care system (WASH water, sanitation, and hygiene)

In this session Makhotso will discuss the implications of water scarcity and the impact on health care delivery from basic infection control measures through to the broader healthcare system.

10am to 10.30am: Break

10.30am to 12pm: Dr Wendy McIntosh

Compare and contrast the nuances of Professional Boundaries in both South Africa and Australia.

Drawing on her extensive understanding of professional boundaries within Australian nursing practice, Dr Wendy McIntosh will explore how these concepts compare within the South African healthcare context. This one-hour session considers how culture, community, professional expectations and healthcare environments may influence boundaries differently, providing participants with an opportunity to compare the two systems and reflect on the nuances of professional relationships across different cultural and clinical settings.

12pm to 1pm: Lunch

1pm: Visit to local hospital

This afternoon we will be visiting one of the major hospitals in the area and will have the opportunity to tour the facility as well as meet with our South African colleagues.

DAY 11: 1st February 2027

Protea Hotel Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton

Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch

CPD hours: 5 face to face

Full Day Johannesburg City Orientation and Soweto Tour including Healthcare facility visit

Hector Pieterson Museum

Visit the Hector Pieterson Museum, which commemorates the events of 16 June 1976, when schoolchildren protested against the imposition of Afrikaans as the medium of instruction. The uprising became a pivotal moment in the anti-apartheid struggle. Twelve-year-old Hector Pieterson, who was killed during the protest, has come to symbolise the courage of the youth who stood against injustice. Today, 16 June is marked nationally as Youth Day in remembrance of those who lost their lives.

Mandela House – Orlando West

Continue to Mandela House, a national monument and former home of Nelson Mandela from 1946 through the 1990s. Managed by the Soweto Heritage Trust, the house has been carefully restored and features multimedia and audio-visual displays that offer insight into Mandela’s family life and personal journey. This visit provides a deeply meaningful connection to South Africa’s political and social history.

Networking Lunch at Sakhumzi Restaurant

Enjoy lunch at Sakhumzi Restaurant, a well-known local favourite in the heart of Soweto. The restaurant serves traditional South African cuisine such as pap and vleis, chakalaka, and boerewors, all within a lively and welcoming setting that reflects the vibrant spirit of the community

Afternoon: Visit to local hospital

This afternoon we will be visiting one of the hospitals in the area and will have the opportunity to tour the facility as well as meet with our South African colleagues.

DAY 12: 2nd February 2027

Inclusions: Breakfast

We say our final goodbyes – safe travels

For information relating to pricing, bookings, flights and travel insurance please complete the booking enquiry box or email enquiries@educationatsea.com.au

Disclosure: The Itinerary, Seminar topics and Seminar Education program are subject to change without notice due to circumstances beyond the control of the organisers. Sessions are correct at time of publication. EAS and NfNN reserves the right to alter charges, cancel, postpone, change or withdraw the product or service at any time.

International Flights & Travel Insurance

We are happy to provide airfare and travel insurance quotes upon request for any travel needs. There is no obligation.

Booking your airfare and travel insurance with Travel Direct Australia/Education At Sea provides the convenience of having all your travel plans organized under one roof. This also comes with the advantage of having all your associated travel costs on a single statement of account.

Please email travel@traveldirectaustralia.com.au or note it on your booking form that you would like a quote.

Disclaimer: Any amendment, cancellation etc. fees are subject to carrier terms and conditions. Travel Direct Australia will not be held responsible for any financial loss due to cancellation from unforeseen circumstances. We strongly recommend you take out travel Insurance at the time of booking.

Flights can be held for 24 hours, we issue the ticket the same day payment is received. Prices are subject to change if payment is not received within this time.

Pricing

	“I Am Because We Are” – Ubuntu and the Heart of Nursing Practice
Twin Share	$9195 per person
Single travellers	Please note that if you are travelling on your own, you will be paired with another single traveller, as accommodation at the safari lodge is limited. Single occupancy can be arranged on request, however a single supplement of $4100 will apply.

What to do next:

To attend the conference, book your cabin and conference spot with our team, at Education at Sea. A non-refundable deposit of $800 per person is due at time of booking with the balance payable by 1st October 2026.

So we can be sure we have booked your cabin correctly, please follow this link to fill out your booking form here.

TOUR INCLUSIONS:

4 night(s) Accommodation at Radisson RED Cape Town V&A Waterfront in a Standard Room with Mountain View on a Bed and Breakfast basis.
Half Day Conference at Radisson Red V&A Waterfront Hotel including tea and coffee breaks with snacks.
Dinner at GOLD Restaurant: Dinner & Live Entertainment
Entrance to SA National Parks – Entrance Fees: Cape of Goodhope (Cape Point)
Entrance to Cape Point – Funicular: Funicular (Return)
Entrance to SA National Parks – Entrance Fees: Boulders Beach
Meal at Seaforth Restaurant: Set Menu E – Half Crayfish
Entrance to Springbok Atlas Tours: Full day Winelands Entrances
Airport transfer for flight to Hoedspruit
Domestic flight from Cape Town to Hoedspruit
Transfer from Hoedspruit Airport (HDS) to Shiduli Private Game Reserve
4 night(s) Accommodation at Shiduli Private Game Reserve in a Luxury Suite on a Full Board basis.
3 night(s) Accommodation at Protea Hotel Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton in a Guest Room on a Bed and Breakfast basis.
Hector Pieterson Museum
Mandela’s House
Lunch at Sakhumzi Restaurant
Transportation as per itinerary above
Donations to every health care facility we visit

PROGRAM INCLUSIONS:

An extensive program based on current best practice
Dedicated Space for expert presentations and reflection
Coffee breaks and lunches on presentation days
Education content that meets the same exacting standards as anything offered in an Australian program
Presenters that are excited to be able to share their skill, knowledge, and passion
An online library filled to the brim with educational content that allows you to create your own learning experience
A Registration Reception including complimentary drinks where you can meet other Attendees and network with Convenors and Presenter/s
A Transcript reflecting all education sessions, presentations and hospital/health centre site visits
A Certificate of Completion identifying the CPD hours attached to the Program for you to include in your CPD Evidence Portfolio

EXCLUSIONS:

Airfares to and from South Africa
Arrival & Departure Aiport Transfers
All other meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Gratuities for tourist guides, drivers, game rangers and trackers
Personal expenses such as alcoholic and other beverages, telephone calls and laundry
Departure airport transfer
Gratuities for meals
Any other services not mentioned above

Cancellation Penalties & Disclosure: All deposits are non refundable. CPD Cruises Pty Ltd trading as Education at Sea will not be responsible due to cancellation from unforeseen circunstances. We strongly recommend you take out travel insurance at the time of booking your study tour. Prices are subject to change, Education at Sea and Travel Direct Australia has reserved the right to re-cost pricing in the event of significant currency fluctuations. Full Terms and coniditions can be found in our FAQ page.

Booking Enquiry

Register your interest in this Study Tour today Please complete the form in this section to express your interest. We will revert within 48 hours with pricing and other details.

General Enquiry

We invite you to check out our FAQs or contact us