SomaTula Founder Achieves Global First in South Africa with INFTA Certification
A partnership with the International Nature and Forest Therapy Alliance (INFTA) allowed Ms Maliga Naidoo, Founder and Director of SomaTula, to become the world’s first INFTA-Certified Forest Therapy Tourist Guide, successfully launching a new wellness initiative in South Africa. Client Location Core Challenge Solution Key Results SomaTula –Forest and Nature Immersion Durban,South Africa Need for science-based certification to launch professional forest therapy services INFTA-Certified Forest Therapy Guide training & practicum Global-first qualification, launched new services in South Africa, strong participant feedback The Challenge:Ms Maliga Naidoo, founder of SomaTula, aimed to introduce professional, science-backed forest walks and retreats across South Africa to support personal wellbeing and a deeper connection to nature. To launch her practice with credibility and a strong foundation of evidence, she required rigorous, internationally recognized certification for her professional development. The Solution:Ms Naidoo enrolled in the INFTA-Certified Forest Therapy Guide training course. The program offered a structure based on a strong foundation of scientific evidence, a well-structured online learning management system, and continuous, constructive guidance from mentors like Susan Joachim. The training provided a deep understanding of Forest Therapy (FT) and its capacity to enhance individual wellbeing and create environmental awareness. The Results:Qualifying in December 2025, Ms Naidoo became the world’s first INFTA-Certified Forest Therapy Tourist Guide. The practicum sessions demonstrated noticeable participant transformations, reaffirming the value of the training and the power of nature-based healing for mental health, immune disorders, and stress management. As a result, SomaTula is now well-positioned to introduce guided walks and retreats across South Africa’s diverse landscapes. “The programme framework is structured on a strong foundation of scientific evidence… The training has been both inspiring and professionally enriching.”— Ms Maliga Naidoo, Founder and Director, SomaTula Discover how INFTA certification can transform your wellness practice.