By Holly Budge | Founder of World Female Ranger Week (June 23-30)
Our inaugural World Female Ranger ‘Leadership’ Award winner is Caroline Olory, the first female Conservator of Park for the National Park Service in Nigeria.
Through Caroline’s efforts, alongside her team, she has improved park protection and conservation in Cross River National Park and Old Oyo National Park. Caroline has increased the involvement of women in decision-making in communities surrounding the parks and has strengthened park/community relationships with state governments and NGOs. She is a role model to girls in the surrounding communities and schools, piquing their interest in education and conservation. Often referred to as the “Iron Lady,” Caroline has delivered talks on the role of women in wildlife conservation to many university students in Nigeria.
“Thank you for recognizing the work we do as female rangers, protecting our biodiversity in Nigeria alongside our male counterparts. It is not easy in the midst of men, many of whom still think the place of women should remain in the kitchen,” says Caroline.
Dr Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka, an ambassador for World Female Ranger Week, says, “gender equity in the conservation arena is such an important and prevalent topic. There is still much work to do but the World Female Ranger Awards play a key role in raising awareness of the work of female rangers and women in conversation in the broader picture.”
Founder of How Many Elephants, Holly Budge, launched the World Female Ranger Awards in 2021 in conjunction with her pioneering initiative, World Female Ranger Week (June 23-30th). Holly and her team have identified over 5500 female rangers around the world. Holly says, “We are delighted to give recognition to female rangers, plus providing grants sponsored by How Many Elephants. I have seen the tangible impact female rangers are making worldwide, protecting wildlife, uplifting communities, and empowering women. I salute all our award winners. Thank you for the vital work you are doing to protect wildlife."
Your donations have played a crucial role in the growth and success of female rangers in Africa, enabling them to make a significant impact on the conservation of wildlife and habitats. Thank you.
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