Today we’d like to introduce you to Darling Ngoh
Hi Darling, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey began with a deep-rooted passion for nature and the outdoors, which was nurtured during my time as a Park Ranger and volunteer with the Arabia Mountain National Heritage Alliance. Alongside my work as a Business Development Manager at a chiropractic clinic and my studies as a Data Science major at Georgia State University, I found solace and inspiration in hiking, mycology, and foraging.
Hikes of Georgia was born out of my desire to make hiking and foraging more accessible, fun, and educational. I wanted to create a community where both novice and experienced hikers could explore Georgia’s beautiful landscapes while learning about the incredible world of fungi and local flora. This passion project quickly grew into an organization that offers guided hikes, educational workshops, and a welcoming community for all nature enthusiasts.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The path to establishing Hikes of Georgia has certainly had its challenges. Balancing multiple roles as a Business Development Manager, a Park Ranger, and a student has been demanding. There were times when managing my schedule and ensuring I was giving my best to each role felt overwhelming. Throughout the process I’ve had tremendous support from those around me, I’d like to give a special shoutout to Ranger Doffice, Ranger Rick, Ranger Shaundon, Sakyra, Joshua, Joseph & Mattias.
Additionally, building awareness and credibility for Hikes of Georgia in a saturated market required persistent effort. We faced hurdles in securing permits for certain trails, organizing events, and ensuring safety protocols, especially during after the pandemic. However, these challenges also strengthened our resolve and taught us invaluable lessons about resilience, community engagement, and the importance of adaptability.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about Hikes Of Georgia?
Hikes of Georgia is an organization dedicated to making hiking and foraging an enjoyable and educational experience for everyone. We specialize in guided hikes that cater to all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned hikers. What sets us apart is our focus on mycology and foraging—each hike is an opportunity to learn about the fascinating world of fungi and the diverse plant life in Georgia.
We are known for our friendly and knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the local ecosystem, ensuring that every hike is not only a physical activity but also a learning experience. Our “Fungi Fridays” feature has become a community favorite, where we spotlight different fungi species and their ecological roles.
I am most proud of the inclusive and supportive community we have built. Our hikes are not just events; they are experiences that foster connections and create lasting memories. We want readers to know that Hikes of Georgia is more than a hiking group—it’s a community dedicated to fostering a deeper appreciation for nature and promoting environmental awareness.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
One surprising aspect that many people might not know is my passion for data science and programming. While I spend a lot of time outdoors, I also enjoy diving into classic literature and developing business solutions through coding. This blend of technology and nature might seem unusual, but it allows me to approach Hikes of Georgia with a unique perspective, integrating data-driven insights to enhance our programs and outreach efforts.
Additionally, my role as a Park Ranger and volunteer has given me a profound appreciation for conservation efforts, and I often bring these principles into our hiking and educational activities, emphasizing the importance of preserving our natural heritage for future generations.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hikesofgeorgia/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hikesofgeorgia
- Other: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/hikes-of-georgia-64989281633
Image Credits
Hikes Of Georgia
