Spotlight On: Indi Bilkhu

One of Royal African’s Partners, Indi brings a rich tapestry of passions to her work, both in and out of the bush. Whether she’s guiding guests or exploring the art of natural horsemanship and sustainable building back home, Indi is always connecting deeply; with nature, with people, and with purpose. In this interview, she shares a glimpse into the inspirations that shape her world.

Is there something you are passionate about besides safaris?

Absolutely! Beyond the incredible world of safaris, I’m deeply passionate about rammed earth construction. There’s something truly grounding and rewarding about building our own homes using natural materials. It’s not just about creating shelter; it’s about learning the ancient art and science behind it – how earth, water, and a bit of human effort come together to form strong, sustainable walls. I love how this method aligns with my values of efficiency and reducing waste, making every project a mindful journey toward harmony with nature.

Another passion close to my heart is natural horsemanship. For me, it’s much more than riding horses – it’s about connecting through energy, patience, and gentleness. I find immense joy in tuning into the horse’s spirit and building a relationship based on trust rather than force. This practice has taught me invaluable lessons about leadership, empathy, and communication that extend far beyond the stables.

Speaking of leadership, I’m actively working on developing my leadership skills. I have exciting plans to grow in this area, inspired by the principles I learn from both building with earth and working with horses. Leadership, to me, means guiding with kindness, confidence, and authenticity – qualities I strive to embody every day.

Any hobbies you pursue?

 Yes, I have a few hobbies that bring a splash of creativity and a touch of nature into my life. One of my favorites is stained glass art. There’s just something magical about working with bright colors and light – it’s like creating little pieces of my imagination that you can actually see!

I also love sailing! Being out on the water, with the wind in my hair, gives me such a sense of freedom and adventure, and it’s a wonderful way to refresh my mind and just be in the moment.

Gardening is another big hobby of mine! I’m so lucky to live somewhere where I can grow my own food all year round. Spending time in my garden not only soothes me, but it also keeps me grounded and connected to nature. Watching things grow from tiny seeds to thriving plants brings me so much joy!

If you could be any African wildlife species for a day, which one would you choose and why? 

I would totally choose to be a giraffe. It must be incredible to see the world from high up like that! I can just imagine quietly watching the beautiful landscapes of East Africa, spotting different herds and all the little movements in the wilderness below. Giraffes are such curious and gentle creatures, and I really relate to that. Their calm and graceful way of moving reminds me of the balance I try to find in my own life—being observant, patient, and staying connected to everything around me.

If animals could talk, which one do you think would have the most fascinating stories to share from the savannah? 

If animals could talk, I think vervet monkeys would have the most amazing stories to share! It’s so entertaining to watch them interact with each other, especially when they come up with their clever food-stealing tricks. It kind of reminds me of scenes from The Jungle Book – one of my all-time favorite movies! Their playful yet sneaky antics feel like a fun, real-life drama happening right in front of me. I can just imagine their chatter being filled with humor, survival tips, and a glimpse into their social lives-like a lively community swapping stories about their adventures and challenges in the wild. It would be such a treat to hear their take on life in their colorful ecosystem!

Do you have any favorite wildlife-themed books, documentaries, or movies that you recommend to your guests for a deeper safari experience?

Just So Stories – Rudyard Kipling 

This delightful collection is a true classic that charms readers of all ages! With its imaginative tales about how animals got their unique features, it’s a wonderful gateway into the enchanting world of wildlife. The mix of folklore, creativity, and nature will spark curiosity and ignite a sense of wonder about the animal kingdom!

An African History of Africa – Zainab Badawi 

This book really shines because Zainab Badawi brings her deep understanding and journalistic flair to light the rich tapestry of Africa’s history. As a remarkable woman and author, she offers an empowering perspective that makes it both informative and inspiring. It’s a must-read for anyone wanting to explore the beautiful cultural and historical background of the continent alongside its amazing wildlife.

Any of Alan Root’s Films – Documentaries on Africa

Alan Root’s films are a true visual treat! His stunning cinematography and genuine portrayal of African wildlife and landscapes make his documentaries utterly captivating. They beautifully capture the essence of Africa, showcasing its natural beauty and the fascinating behavior of its wildlife. Perfect for anyone who loves East African wildlife and wants to learn more about conservation in an engaging way!