WESSA is thrilled to welcome Hendrik Isaks to the team as a Wildlife Protection Unit Ranger at uMngeni Valley Nature Reserve, where he joins forces with fellow ranger Bongani Chisale to protect one of KwaZulu-Natal’s most treasured wilderness spaces.
Hendrik’s journey into conservation began the moment he left school in 1996, and by the following year, he was already working as a field ranger. Over the past 27 years, he has built a career grounded in deep bush knowledge, operational leadership, and frontline anti-poaching work across various reserves in South Africa.
“I read about WESSA, and ever since then, I’ve wanted to get here,” says Hendrik. “Now that I’m finally here, I want to use my skills and knowledge to make an impact. The organisation has been on the map for years, and if I can put my stamp down as an achiever at WESSA, I’ll know I’ve made a difference.”
Hendrik brings a wealth of practical and technical expertise to his role. He is a Level 1 Trails Guide, a qualified dog handler and trainer, an Environmental Inspector, and a veteran anti-poaching ranger. From tracking poachers to training dogs that save rhinos, Hendrik’s work has helped protect South Africa’s most vulnerable wildlife.
His leadership, humility, and commitment to nature will be key in strengthening WESSA’s on-the-ground biodiversity protection efforts at uMngeni Valley and beyond.
“Every park and every reserve is unique. It doesn’t matter where you find yourself, enjoy it, give your absolute best, leave a positive mark wherever you go… and always remember to stay green.”
With decades of conservation experience now supporting WESSA’s mission, we’re honoured to have Hendrik join the team.