Vision and Goals
The Cheetah Champion Program represents the next step in our commitment to community-led conservation. By investing in passionate young leaders, we aim to build a future where the guardians of wildlife come from the very communities that live alongside it.
Each year, one outstanding Rhino Champion intern is selected to continue their conservation journey as a Cheetah Champion, a prestigious role that pairs leadership with long-term skills development. These young individuals step into a deeper level of training, enrolling in certified programs that prepare them for careers in conservation and ecotourism, such as safari guiding or field ranging.
Through this program, we aim to foster lifelong environmental stewards who serve as wildlife professionals, role models and conservation ambassadors within their communities.
Partners
This program is led by Global Humane Conservation Fund of Africa in partnership with Wilderness Foundation Africa. Together, we engage recognised training providers, such as Ulovane Environmental Training, to deliver education and vocational training to our Cheetah Champions.
Project in Action
After completing their six-month Rhino Champion internship, one exceptional individual is chosen to continue their path as a Cheetah Champion. This role dives deeper into the field of conservation, combining hands-on experience with formal skills development.
Each Cheetah Champion enrolls in a certified training program tailored to their career goals. Whether training as a field ranger, safari guide, or conservation educator, the experience equips them with the tools needed to thrive in the ecotourism and wildlife sectors.
Beyond professional growth, this journey is also about walking “hand-in-paw” with the very animals they help protect. As part of the larger Cheetah Rewilding Program, our Cheetah Champions develop a close connection to the process of reintroducing cheetahs into the wild, gaining firsthand insight into wildlife management, tracking and the importance of genetic diversity.
In turn, they carry these lessons back to their communities, sharing stories, igniting passion and inspiring others to pursue careers that protect South Africa’s wildlife and natural spaces.
Our Current Cheetah Champions
Anele Ntshiyane
Anele made history as our first Cheetah Champion, selected for her outstanding commitment during her Rhino Champion internship. Her journey has fueled her dream of becoming a conservationist. Anele is now pursuing certification in safari guiding while working in a full time position at Nyosi Wildlife Reserve as a Guest Relations Officer.
Vuyisana “Tshatshu” Busakwe
Tshatshu’s passion for wildlife and strong leadership style stood out during his time as a Rhino Champion. Now training as a safari guide, he’s developed strong skills in tracking and conservation safety protocols. Tshatshu displays an incredible positive attitude towards any task and whenever presented with an opportunity he is hands-on with whatever task he is dealt with.
Usisipho “Usi” Soyeye
The most recent Cheetah Champion, Usi is currently completing her certified training as a safari guide. With a sharp eye for detail and a growing confidence in the field, she’s building essential skills in tracking, reserve management and wildlife monitoring. Usi brings great energy and determination to the team and hopes to inspire more young women to pursue careers in conservation.
