In the face of a relentless poaching crisis, the need for skilled, committed wildlife protectors has never been more urgent. That’s why the SORAI Foundation proudly funded a vital field ranger selection programme in South Africa’s iconic Kruger National Park (KNP), aimed at finding the next generation of elite conservationists.
Led by Conservation Outcomes, this intensive field ranger selection process took place in 2024, with over 10,000 applications flooding in. From those, just 120 hopefuls reached the final stage of selection at the Sandriver Training Camp—under the guidance of seasoned instructors and KNP leadership.
The final twelve-day selection process tested everything from physical stamina and bush skills to teamwork, discipline, leadership, and mental resilience. From daily speed marches and simulated casualty evacuations to confidence-building exercises like buddy boxing, each challenge mirrored the real-world pressures rangers face daily in the fight against wildlife crime.
Ultimately, 33 standout individuals made the cut and are now enrolled in the rigorous Basic Field Ranger training course. Their mission: to join the frontline of defence against poaching, protecting rhinos and other endangered species from extinction.
This project is part of SORAI’s broader commitment to strengthening the ‘human fence’ around threatened wildlife. By supporting training and recruitment efforts like this, we’re not only increasing boots on the ground—we’re helping build a legacy of courage, integrity, and purpose. Because when rangers are empowered, Rhinos and other wildlife stand a chance.