The Black Mambas recently paid a visit to the future generation; inspiring them to consider the unbeaten path of bravery that is being a female ranger.
Greater Kruger, South Africa (01 August, 2023) — In an effort to inspire more young people and especially girls to consider the unbeaten, but all-important path of becoming a hero (ranger) The Black Mambas had their own ‘career day’. The all-female ranger squad paid a visit to students as part of their World Ranger Day activities, inspiring the children through their bravery and knowledge.
“It is unusual for the kids to see women in camo uniform and they also ask a lot of questions about their badges, what they mean, animals they see and if The Mambas are afraid to encounter them or not,” shared The Bush Babies; sister project of The Black Mambas.
Where The Black Mambas tackles wildlife protection and conservation head on, The Bush Babies focuses on environmental awareness at various schools around the Greater Kruger Nation.
For The Bush Babies, the future generation (especially those who live in and around wildlife areas) needs to be equipt with environmental knowledge. This way, conservation and care become second nature and the conscious baton can be passed on again and again.
The all-female ranger squad’s visit showed the students that a hero’s role conforms to no gender, normalising the idea that anyone can suit up for a good cause. For children who aren’t used to seeing women in camo uniform, the ‘career day’ visit helped spark the idea that anyone can be brave, even in societies where masculine bravery is celebrated more.
As the Black Mambas continue to make an impact by protecting wildlife, they also continue to inspire. One man from the UK was so inspired by their work that he decided to embark on a great cycle to rally support for them.
Paul Edkins began cycling from London to South Africa a few weeks ago with a big goal to raise support for our heroines. Though the road ahead is still long (Paul’s latest update came from Germany) it has people all over the world rooting for him and the rangers.
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