More than 300 primary school learners from communities surrounding Addo Elephant National Park have been given an unforgettable glimpse into South Africa’s conservation frontline. Hosted by the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa (WESSA), the youngsters attended a special screening of The Last Ranger, a film celebrating the bravery of wildlife protectors and the urgent need to safeguard endangered species.
The learners — drawn from six local schools including La Trobe, Vusumzi, AV Bukani, Addo, Moreson and Rietberg Primary — were not only shown the film but were immersed in a full-day programme designed to spark curiosity, ignite responsibility and introduce potential careers in the green economy.
“This is an incredible moment for inclusive conservation strategies in South Africa,” said WESSA CEO Cindy-Lee Cloete. “It links South African youth to the real-life experiences of conserving our natural heritage — in this case, our rhinos.” She also thanked SANParks at Addo Elephant National Park and Kindred Films for partnering with WESSA to make the experience possible.
Beyond the screening, the children experienced the park first-hand on a guided drive where they spotted wildlife in their natural habitat. They also enjoyed a nutritious meal and took part in an interactive Q&A session with a conservation expert, who shared personal stories from the frontlines. The exchange inspired learners to reflect on their own roles in protecting the environment. One learner remarked, “My favourite part of the movie was when the woman sacrificed her life for the rhino,” while another shared, “When the ranger told the young girl, ‘You are very strong,’ it inspired me not to give up on my dreams.”
Kelly Alcock, WESSA’s Head of Education and Sustainability, said programmes like this go far beyond teaching facts. “Through these screenings we can introduce young people to career pathways in biodiversity conservation, environmental management, waste innovation and sustainable agriculture. We build early awareness of environmental challenges and the role youth can play, while introducing future-focused skills and knowledge.”
The initiative was made possible through a wide network of supporters and donors including SANParks, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Kindred Films, Nedbank and the NOA Group. Each partner emphasised the power of storytelling to inspire young minds. “The most effective way to inspire a mind is by telling a story,” said Will Hawkes from Kindred Films. Nedbank’s Jehaan Anthony added that the experience aligned perfectly with their focus on the Green Economy and youth empowerment, while Angela Harrison of NOA Group noted the importance of sharing the dedication of rangers and veterinarians with the next generation.
WESSA says it will continue creating platforms like this to educate and empower South African youth to advocate for and protect their environments. By providing experiences that combine learning with inspiration, the organisation hopes to nurture tomorrow’s environmental leaders.
