This Heritage Month, on 22 and 24 September, WESSA brought the magic of cinema and conservation together, hosting two special screenings of The Last Ranger for 300 children from communities neighbouring Addo Elephant National Park.
“This is an incredible moment for inclusive conservation strategies in South Africa. It links South African youth to the real-life experiences of the conservation of our natural heritage – in this case, our rhinos. I would like to thank the team at Kindred Films who supported us to have these important conversations, using The Last Ranger film as the tool to Educate, Advocate and Act for a collective conservation. To our SANParks colleagues at Addo Elephant National Park, this would not have been possible without your partnership – what a way to kick off SANParks Week,” says Cindy-Lee Cloete, WESSA CEO.
Co-Founder of Kindred Films, Will Hawkes, adds “The most effective way to inspire a mind is by telling a story. The Kindred Films team is honoured to partner with WESSA and SANParks to share The Last Ranger film with students in the Eastern Cape. We hope it will inspire them to believe in the majesty of South African rhinos and to take responsibility for their survival.”
Each event was more than a film screening; it was an immersive experience in conservation. Learners entered the park, enjoyed a meal, and engaged in a dynamic Q&A session with conservation leaders who shared their personal journeys and insights into protecting South Africa’s natural heritage.
SANParks Rhino awareness session – Addo Primary and AV Bukani Primary school learners engaged
The film’s message of courage, community, and hope resonated deeply with the children, sparking conversations about the role of young people in safeguarding our environment. Their feedback reflected the courage and resilience shown in the film. As one learner put it: “My favourite part of the movie was when the woman sacrificed her life for the rhino.” Another added: “When the ranger told the young girl, ‘You are very strong,’ it inspired me not to give up on my dreams.”
Generous support made it all possible
Thanks to the generous support of WESSA’s donors, and strategic partners including South African National Parks (SANParks), the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Kindred Films, Nedbank and the NOA Group – 300 learners could take part in this unforgettable experience.
“Our staff volunteerism programme is purpose-driven, and this partnership with WESSA offered us an opportunity to authentically live that purpose. It aligns directly with our strategic focus on the Green Economy, while also reflecting our deep commitment to youth by unlocking opportunities for the next generation of leaders. As The Last Ranger reminds us, conservation is a deeply human act — a reflection on legacy, responsibility, and the emotional bonds between people and the wild. This experience captured that sentiment perfectly. For these young learners, it wasn’t just about teaching facts; it was about igniting a sense of responsibility, an understanding of legacy, and a love for the natural world that will stay with them for a lifetime,” shares Jehaan Anthony, Head of Staff Volunteerism and Advocacy at Nedbank’s Social Impact Unit.
“NOA, on behalf of our Wind Garden wind farm project, is proud to support The Last Ranger initiative, as part of our commitment to conservation and biodiversity. By sharing this powerful story with local youth, we hope to inspire the next generation to appreciate the importance of protecting our wildlife and to recognise the remarkable dedication of the rangers and veterinarians working on the frontlines of conservation in South Africa,” says Angela Harrison, Socio-Economic Development Manager of NOA Group.
La Trobe Primary school learners completing the National Park Activity booklet
Career pathways in the green economy for young people
“Through these screenings we can introduce young people to potential career pathways in the green economy, including biodiversity conservation, environmental management, waste innovation, as well as sustainable agriculture. WESSA does this by building early awareness of environmental challenges and the role youth can play as well as introducing future-focused skills and knowledge,” adds Kelly Alcock, WESSA’s Head of Education and Sustainability.
Here’s a heartfelt message that WESSA received from Peter Hendricks, the Principal at La Trobe Primary School: “I would like to pour out our gratitude for the opportunity you gave our kids, to see and experience what overseas visitors come and do on our shores. You might not know it, but for many kids that was the best meal they had in many a moon. You might not know it, but for many, that was the closest they’ll get to a Christmas atmosphere. The visit to the field was memorable and exquisite. The lessons were practical and self-exploratory. Thank you for creating lasting, educational memories in our kids, with an authentic appreciation for our unique heritage. WESSA, Eco-Schools and SANParks, take a bow! ”
WESSA remains committed to creating these life-changing opportunities, opening doors for young people to imagine themselves as future conservation leaders.
If you’d like to support more initiatives like this, click here: https://www.wessa.org.za/donate/
From left to right: Reitberg Primary School painting Rhino artboard; Vusumzi Primary Schoo educators and learners with Rhino artboard; [bottom] AV Bukani Primary School Group photo