In April, four CAP students (left to right: Nhluri Malatje, Jafet Mzimba, Siyabonga Mathebula and Luka Mlambo) embarked on an unforgettable 3-night, 4-day Canine Training Conservation Experience at Shinzela Wildlife Reserve, hosted by our partners at Soldiers for Wildlife (SFW). Through their hands-on Canine Introduction Course, students worked alongside trained conservation dogs, discovering the critical role these incredible animals play in anti-poaching efforts, as well as learning about their behavior, training, and care. Beyond the canine experience, participants gained insight into wider conservation efforts by repurposing wire recovered from snare-removal activities into handmade jewellery. The experience was both inspiring and transformative, igniting a deeper passion for wildlife protection and empowering the next generation of conservation leaders within the Future Rangers Program.

In early March, GCC was represented at the 2026 Business of Conservation Conference (BCC) in Nairobi, where Matt Lindenberg spoke among a select group of leaders shaping the future of Africa’s wildlife economy. Sharing GCC’s perspective on building the next generation of conservation leadership, Matt highlighted the role of the Future Rangers Program in connecting young people living alongside wildlife to meaningful pathways into conservation.

The response was significant, with strong interest from organizations across Africa exploring how the Future Rangers model could be adapted within their own countries and regions – a pathway GCC is actively considering as 2026 unfolds. Together, these engagements reflect a growing recognition that the future of conservation will depend on investing in people as much as protecting wildlife.

In late April, GCC was represented at the Voices for the Wild conference at the University of Parma – a three-day event delivered in partnership with the Southern African Wildlife College (SAWC), focused on bridging academic research with frontline conservation. GCC’s Matt Lindenberg was joined by Orlat Ndlovu, Head of Ranger Services at the Timbavati Nature Reserve, with the two addressing more than 600 students, academics, and conservation professionals throughout the week, culminating in a powerful public screening of Rhino Man.

Orchestrated by long-time GCC advisor and friend, Michele Sofisti, the conference created a valuable platform connecting Italian academic institutions and students with African conservation leaders. Orlat shared perspectives from nearly 20 years on the front lines of rhino protection, while Matt spoke to the long-term vision of the Future Rangers Program and the importance of education, partnerships and diversified solutions. Orlat and Matt were joined by esteemed Italian conservationists including the Director of the Dolomites National Park, leadership from WWF, professors from the University of Parma and the National Forest Guard (Carabinieri). We extend our sincere thanks to the University of Parma, the University Center for International Cooperation (CUCI), the Southern African Wildlife College, Nzatu, Michele Sofisti, and the university faculty involved for making this engagement possible. In addition, time was spent in Zurich meeting with GCC supporters, and in Neuchâtel, where a conservation presentation was delivered at the Museum of Natural History – further strengthening relationships and expanding the reach of the Future Rangers vision.

Exciting progress continues across our high school and primary school programs. Student progress reports are currently being finalized, reflecting a term filled with growth, exploration, and engagement. The first term of school included at least 6 unique conservation lessons per cohort across our three high schools, three nights at Koru Camp for each of our 39 Explorers, a boat cruise on the picturesque dam in the Blyde Canyon Nature Reserve for each of our 39 Ambassadors, 5 digital literacy and career focus sessions for our 17 Pathfinders.

More than 140 Grade 7 learners participated in establishing school gardens and from these, the most enthusiastic 60 learners were selected to become the official Sprout Scouts, recognising their commitment and leadership potential. Adding to these milestones, 55 learners have already experienced a game drive at the Southern African Wildlife College, offering many of them a first-hand glimpse into the world of wildlife conservation and inspiring an even deeper connection to the natural world.

Last week, we hosted long-time friend and GCC Board Advisor Michele Sofisti and a group of professors from the University of Parma, Italy, on a GCC Experience. The group was here on a week-long learning exchange with our partners at the Southern African Wildlife College, so we took this opportunity to introduce them to our work with Kruger’s youth. We spent the morning at Mahlekisana Primary School, interacting with our Sprout Scouts in their vegetable gardens, experiencing a guided tree tour and meeting with school staff to understand the challenges and successes of the Future Rangers Program.

From there we ventured over to Lefa’s house for a traditional lunch in Welverdiend Village, joined by some of our Conservation Apprentice Program (CAP) graduates. Over a delicious meal, we discussed the future of conservation (and football) with our top learners. We even had a competition to see who would eat the local delicacy of Mopane worms. Not everyone had the gumption, but a few brave souls endured. After lunch, we transitioned over to our partners at the Timbavati Nature Reserve, where the group met Orlat Ndlovu, Head of Security. We were taken on a guided walk through parts of the reserve, encountering various mammal, bird, and tree species along the way. Given the professors’ specialization in animal ethology, entomology and drone technology, there was no shortage of conversation in the field.

Connecting guests and partners with our programs and conservation partners forms the lifeblood of GCC. If you’re interested in joining us for a day-trip as outlined above, or would like to learn more about our exclusive 6 night Wildlife Guardians Experience, reach out to [email protected] for more information.

As we step into the new year, the Future Rangers Program is well underway – from our youngest Sprout Scouts to our emerging young adults. We began the year with a leadership camp at the breathtaking Blyde Adventure Camp. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Drakensberg mountains, 2025’s top performing Future Rangers spent three immersive days building practical outdoor skills and leadership skills. From obstacle courses to cooking over open fires, every activity was designed to build confidence, resilience, and self-reliance. It was a powerful reminder that conservation leadership starts with character and shared experience.

Back in our high school classrooms, that same energy continues. After a rigorous application and interview process, we have selected the top 108 students across 3 schools to partake in our 2026 high school program. With a 74% retention rate, we’re proud to see so many students continuing their journey with GCC. Our first sessions have focused on mapping personal ambitions and long-term goals, setting a clear and inspiring tone for the year ahead. Just two months in, we are already seeing confident young conservationists take shape.

Our 5th annual Careers in Conservation Expo was a huge success. Over 300 students from across the Greater Kruger region came together with one shared goal, to make conservation exciting, accessible, and full of possibility. From inspiring keynote speakers to interactive exhibits, the day was filled with energy and learning. A major highlight was the helicopter flip, where three lucky students enjoyed a bird’s-eye view of the celebration below.

With lively music and incredible enthusiasm from everyone involved, CIC 2025 left students motivated to pursue the many opportunities awaiting them in conservation. A heartfelt thank you to all our speakers, exhibitors, and especially to every student who attended, the future of conservation truly lies in your hands.

As we wrap up 2025, we’ve been generously awarded a $50,000 funding match from the Morgridge Family Foundation (MFF). Every donation to GCC before November 15th, 2025 will be doubled (up to a total of $50,000) thanks to our phenomenal partners. As we head into the giving season, please consider supporting GCC and the Future Rangers Program with your charitable giving. You can make your contribution directly here or reach out to [email protected] for more information.

Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve

Our Grade 12 Future Rangers embarked on a field trip to the breathtaking Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, experiencing the canyon from a boat, a first-time adventure for most of them. Seeing the landscape from the water, surrounded by crocodiles, hippos, and towering cliffs, offered a brand-new perspective on nature’s beauty and power, while expanding on new career pathways for our learners.

Koru Camp

We visited Koru Camp four times this term, each experience offering something unique. Two camps followed the traditional safari format, with morning and evening game drives and a variety of conservation-based activities.

The other two camps were specially tailored: one celebrated Women’s Month, bringing together a multi-generational group of inspiring females, and the other focused on the ancient art of animal tracking, led by San Master Trackers from Namibia.

Our Grade 12s returned from this on-foot tracking experience deeply inspired and more connected to nature than ever before. A big thank you to Dingbats* Notebooks for donating the beautiful notebooks our students used to document their observations and reflections.

Job Shadowing

As our Grade 12s prepare to step into “the big wide world” after finishing school in 2025, we launched our first-ever Job Shadowing Week at the Southern African Wildlife College. Students had the opportunity to observe a wide range of careers in conservation and tourism, helping them gain valuable insights to help shape their futures.

We were thrilled to welcome Renee Lighton for an educator development workshop, hosted in collaboration with the Timbavati Foundation. Participants included our own teaching teams, along with educators from EcoChildren and Rhino Revolution. With a focus on leadership in environmental education, the session was a catalyst for connection, change and inspiration.

The following day, we celebrated the opening of the new Koru Camp facilities – now more welcoming than ever. Seven of our GCC Future Rangers were invited to attend, partaking in the many exciting activities for the day. From tree planting to traditional African dancing, the opening ceremony was one to remember. We wish Koru Camp all the best on this new venture and will undoubtedly keep returning with our Future Rangers.

Huge congratulations to our team – each staff member who took the FGASA Apprentice Field Guide written exam has passed! Next up: practical assessments, so we will be ramping up time in the field with help from our amazing partners. Meanwhile, new team members are eager to begin their FGASA journey too. Let’s do this!

Welcoming visitors is one of the most meaningful ways we get to share the work we’ve committed our lives to. Whether it’s university students studying ecology, or families on safari eager to connect more deeply with the land – they all become part of the GCC story. Spending time immersing oneself in the Future Rangers Program ultimately helps sustain and grow our cause.

June was especially full, with back-to-back guest visits. The much anticipated quarterly visit from our long-standing partners at the Katie Adamson Conservation Fund kicked off the month. KACF arrived with a group of enthusiastic and kind-hearted guests whose presence at Mahlekisana Primary School brought warmth, energy, and a shared sense of purpose to our work on the ground.

Jim Hart and Anne London with Arts for Animals, joined us all the way from New Orleans to conduct an in-depth training session with our staff. Our education team was exposed to the powerful impact of art in the classroom, with Anne teaching us all how to draw, and then how to facilitate the development of new knowledge through the creative process.

We then welcomed the Thompson family from Denver, who joined us for a powerful week with our Wildlife Guardians Experience. In addition to the various GCC activities, we visited pivotal partners at the Southern African Wildlife College and Timbavati Nature Reserve, exposing the family to the various short and long-term conservation solutions these pioneering organizations are developing and deploying.

And to wrap up June, we welcomed Ryan Sojnocki & Elsa Grude from British Columbia, Canada. They spent 2 nights camping with our Sokisi High School learners at Koru Camp, visited our partner schools, and generously funded a team building experience for the GCC staff and 9 of our grade 12 Future Rangers at the famous Blyde River Canyon.

Our international community of friends and partners form the lifeblood of the GCC family. Nothing beats real human interaction, discussing the future of the natural world, and spending quality time with the next generation of conservation leaders.

We are proud to partner with Wild Impact in rolling out the Youth Employment Service (YES) – a private sector-led initiative aimed at empowering unemployed youth through 12-month quality work experiences. This impactful programme is designed to cultivate the next generation of managers, skilled professionals, and entrepreneurs who will help shape South Africa’s economic future.

As part of this initiative, we welcome three dynamic interns who will be working with us for the next year:

Ntshuxeko Mathebula

Holding qualifications in botany and biochemistry, Ntshuxeko will be implementing the vegetable garden project – now officially named Sprout Scouts – at Salani and Manyeleti Primary Schools. Her bubbly personality and sense of initiative have already made her an invaluable addition to the team.

Respect Ndlovu

With a qualification in translation, Respect will be implementing the Future Rangers Program at Mahlale High School. He is already known for his kindness and generosity with his time, showing tremendous promise in his role.

Wisani Ngwenya

Armed with a Bachelor of Arts in Motion Picture, Wisani joins the team as a content creator. His creative flair and enthusiasm have seen him dive into additional roles, including supporting our social media efforts.

Please join us in giving Ntshuxeko, Respect, and Wisani a warm welcome to the GCC family. We look forward to the energy, innovation, and passion they bring to our mission.

We loved hosting students from Grand Valley State University as they joined our Future Rangers Program for a day. The day included working in the vegetable gardens at Mahlekisana Primary, competing against the (very fit) Grade 7 students in a soccer match, sharing a traditional African meal with the Future Rangers, and visiting a traditional healer. We shared many laughs and stories, celebrating our world and our place within it, together.

We have successfully completed five Kruger National Park day trips in 2025. This month, the Mahlale and Sokisi High School Explorers eagerly embarked on their respective excursions, rewarded with incredible sightings of elephants, lappet-faced vultures, wild dogs, and hyenas. A heartfelt thank you to our valued conservation partner, Kendra Carano, for contributing her excellent photography skills to capture the day’s highlights.

A standout surprise of the day was the delicious lunch, generously provided in partnership with the Cattle Baron restaurant in Satara. Quintessential South African cuisine was served, giving the students a chance to reflect on their incredible sightings while sharing another rare and meaningful “first time” experience: dining out with friends.

Siyabonga Tivana, Siyabonga Ngwenya, Senky Mnisi and Khensile Ngobeni from Sokisi High School – looking satisfied indeed!

ShareScreen Africa and GCC have partnered to deliver online information sessions exploring the many career paths available to our Future Ranger Graduates (Grade 12s) after high school. The ShareScreen Africa team connects universities, scientists, researchers, technical specialists, and conservation experts with our promising Future Rangers by hosting insightful webinars.

The first ShareScreen session was presented to each of our Grade 12 students who are preparing to apply for tertiary studies in 2026. The focus topic was how to go about pursuing Environmental Sciences at the Tshwane University of Technology. The next session will explore opportunities offered in the guiding industry through FGASA. This is a fantastic addition to the program and marks the beginning of a fruitful long-term partnership!

With the first of four terms complete, here’s a special mention of our top performer from each school:

Help us continue to provide transformative experiences for students like Boithabiso, Owami & Nwayitelo…

For $20 a month, you can support a student to enroll in the Future Rangers Program, which covers conservation lessons, dedicated career guidance, field trips, overnight experiences, transportation, meals, and access to our digital learning platform, Vumba.

Supporting the Future Rangers Program not only impacts these young conservationists but also gives you access to exclusive updates on their progress, both in the classroom and on the ground, where they experience the wonders of wildlife firsthand.

To add to the vehicle’s capabilities, the Lumsden Family kindly donated specific funds to cover an engine upgrade, improved air conditioning, and the vital necessity of comprehensive insurance. On the ground, a massive thank you to Trophy Toyota Tzaneen for giving us a generous discount and funding the costs of a fully branded vehicle with the talented TZN Print Co. With this new set of wheels, we’re no longer limited by transportation challenges. We can visit schools more frequently, provide hands-on conservation experiences to more students, and ensure that every Future Ranger has access to the programs that inspire them to protect our planet. This is a major step forward for GCC, and we’re excited to see where the road takes us next!

This month, the Graduates (grade 12) have been engaged in career aptitude assessments and research activities while we continue forging connections to secure conservation-focused job-shadowing opportunities in the community. A special mention goes to Sokisi High School Graduate, Pricilla Thobela, whose poise and determination shone in an impromptu debate exercise. Pricilla exemplifies resilience in her pursuit of success, and we remain committed to supporting her on this journey.

To add to the vehicle’s capabilities, the Lumsden Family kindly donated specific funds to cover an engine upgrade, improved air conditioning, and the vital necessity of comprehensive insurance. On the ground, a massive thank you to Trophy Toyota Tzaneen for giving us a generous discount and funding the costs of a fully branded vehicle with the talented TZN Print Co. With this new set of wheels, we’re no longer limited by transportation challenges. We can visit schools more frequently, provide hands-on conservation experiences to more students, and ensure that every Future Ranger has access to the programs that inspire them to protect our planet.

This is a major step forward for GCC, and we’re excited to see where the road takes us next!

We were thrilled to host GCC Board Members Ellie Milano and Steph Welsh in South Africa last month. Their visit provided a comprehensive view into our various programs, partnerships, and to connect with our incredible GCC staff. Throughout the week, we met with various partners from Koru Camp, the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, Southern African Wildlife College and Nourish.

Most importantly, this trip gave Steph and Ellie the opportunity to meet with our students in the Future Rangers Program. We were able to visit both Primary and High schools, with the week ending in a trip to Koru Camp for our top 12 high school learners from 2024. On safari with the students, we had some incredible lion, leopard, and elephant sightings in the bush, witnessing firsthand the power of youth connecting with the natural world. Ellie and Steph concluded their trip with recommendations, insights, and key takeaways which will be presented to the greater board and used to improve GCC’s long-term strategic plans.

We’re so grateful to Steph and Ellie for coming all this way from Denver and Boston, respectively. It’s always so rewarding to see the power of different backgrounds, nationalities, and perspectives coming together for something bigger than ourselves.

If you’re interested in experiencing a behind-the-scenes adventure like Ellie and Steph, reach out to [email protected] for more information on our Wildlife Guardians travel program.

We always assumed that Mbhoni’s first trip out of Africa would be to the United States. Turns out we were wrong – apologies to all of Mbhoni’s fans in the USA!

Recently, GCC was invited by the Elephant Foundation to present our work at the prestigious Elephant Week in Hong Kong. With exceptional public speaking abilities and trademarked charisma, Mbhoni was the obvious choice! After a 6 hour drive from the Kruger, Mbhoni flew the 13 hour trip from Johannesburg to Hong Kong, met Colin Dawson and his team on arrival, and straight away got to work…

During the course of the week, Mbhoni addressed approximately 2,000 students from 16 different international and public schools. He presented our Future Rangers Program, and the critical importance of youth advocating for nature and wildlife.

Hong Kong learners couldn’t believe that four out of five youth living next to Kruger had never seen wildlife!

Everyone assumed that people and wildlife were completely integrated in South Africa; a myth which Mbhoni quickly shattered. Mbhoni also drew upon his previous experiences as a field ranger, educating the youth on the impacts of the illegal wildlife trade to both local communities and wildlife.

While in Hong Kong, Mbhoni and Colin Dawson from the Elephant Foundation presented to Cathay Pacific Airways, the Royal Geographical Society, and business leaders from transnational corporations.

The week culminated in Mbhoni attending the RHINO MAN Asia Premiere, where he presented on a panel afterwards to an engaged and emotional audience.

To add to this eye-opening visit, Mbhoni was exposed to a “wet market” in downtown Hong Kong, where live animals had been trafficked into the marketplace.

This emotional encounter gave Mbhoni first-hand experience into the inner workings of consumer markets; invaluable knowledge which he will incorporate to the 2025 Future Rangers Program. This exposure, no matter how hard it was to witness, will be transformed into educating our learners about the damaging effects of the illegal wildlife trade, and how important local communities are in halting the supply of wildlife contraband.

A sincere thank you to the Elephant Foundation, Colin Dawson, and his team for hosting Mbhoni for 9 days, providing a platform to share stories and messages from the front-lines of the greater Kruger region.

Mbhoni, congratulations on your first overseas expedition, and thank you for bringing warmth, education, inspiration, and passion to a new corner of the world.

This #GivingTuesday, join us in elevating the next generation of wildlife champions. Your generosity today will create a brighter, more sustainable tomorrow.

Click the button below to donate and make a difference today!

The Oppenheimer Generations Research and Conservation Conference, held from October 9 – 11, gathered leading minds in conservation from around the globe to share research-driven solutions that balance human and environmental health.

Ash Baker represented the GCC team by partaking in the poster session, presenting our Future Rangers Program alongside Vumba.

She shared this about the experience:

“It was a privilege to gain insight into scientific research focused on climate change and its effects on the natural environment. I witnessed and partook in invaluable conversations that centered on strategies to mitigate climate change in ways that support local economies, communities, and wildlife. So many scientists in one space, what an inspiration!”

GCC is honored to have been part of this vital dialogue, and we’re committed to translating the insights gained into action on the ground. Ash’s experience underscores the importance of research-backed conservation and our dedication to a sustainable future for Africa’s landscapes.

The conference served as a powerful reminder of the transformative role conservationists play in safeguarding the continent’s future.

Our Future Rangers, Malebo Lara Mokgale and Tshiamo Mokone, were recently gifted special edition notebooks from Dingbats* Notebooks — a sustainable brand committed to eco-friendly products. This generous donation equips our young conservationists with an essential tool for their learning journey, encouraging them to document everything they encounter in the field.

These notebooks, like the one Owami Sithole from Sokisi High School is holding, are more than just a keepsake; they represent the values of sustainability and curiosity that lie at the heart of conservation. As our Future Rangers record their thoughts, observations, and dreams, they embrace their role as the next generation of environmental stewards.

We extend our gratitude to Dingbats* Notebooks for supporting our Future Rangers, giving them a place to jot down their inspirations and plans for a sustainable future.

We recently had the pleasure of welcoming longtime supporter, Robbie Hairfield, to South Africa for his first-ever visit — a meaningful journey made possible with GCC’s planning and support.

Through his impactful work with Wildlife & Co., Robbie has been a steadfast advocate for conservation, raising awareness about African wildlife with audiences worldwide. This visit brought him face-to-face with the landscapes and communities he has championed, as he toured local schools, engaged with Future Rangers, and even met the courageous rangers of Timbavati.

Robbie’s journey stands as a testament to the power of conservation partnerships and immersive experiences. Witnessing our programs firsthand, he gained deeper insight into the impactful work we’re doing together to inspire future conservationists. We’re grateful for his unwavering commitment and the opportunity to share South Africa’s natural beauty and conservation efforts with him.

Interested in a similar experience? If you’re passionate about wildlife and eager to connect with conservation efforts on the ground, GCC would love to plan a transformative trip tailored to you. Contact [email protected] for more info.