Jackline Ntinyari, our first ‘Wildlife Hero’

Launching Born Free’s new seven-part film series with a fascinating story about conservation, Jackline is working on the frontline for wildlife in our charity’s heartland of Meru National Park, in Kenya.

A photo of Jackline Ntinyari in a green uniform standing in an outdoor setting, with test saying 'WILDLIFE HEROES' overlaid.

Jackline Ntinyari’s journey as a wildlife hero began in her classroom. Growing up in Kanjoo village on the edge of Meru National Park, in central Kenya, she first discovered her passion for wild animals when a Born Free team visited her school. Jackline eagerly joined the Born Free Conservation Club, and that spark grew into a lifelong commitment to protecting the incredible wildlife around her.  Watch Jackline’s Wildlife Heroes film below, and scroll down to read more…

 

WATCH JACKLINE'S INSPIRING STORY

In 2021, Jackline joined Born Free’s Twiga Team as an Eco-Scout. Her work is demanding, and often dangerous. She patrols remote and rugged terrain, removes snares that threatens giraffes, lions and other animals, and collects vital data to support conservation strategies. Every snare she finds, every animal she monitors, is a step toward safeguarding Meru’s wildlife.

A true hero for wildlife, Jackline engages closely with her community, sharing knowledge and raising awareness, while navigating the challenges faced in the field – from harsh terrain to complex human-wildlife conflict.

Our new Wildlife Heroes: Stories of Courage, Care and Conservation series premieres with a focus on 31-year-old Jackie. The seven-minute film shines a light on the incredible work our charity does in the field, introduces remarkable Jackline and her local community, and considers the issues and challenges she faces every day.

“Her story shows how one young girl, inspired by a school visit, can grow into a fearless wildlife hero,” explains Amanda Poole-Connor, Born Free’s Head of Comms & PR, who devised the series of beautiful and enlightening short films. “Her efforts ripple out across the park and her community, inspiring those around her and helping ensure wild animals can thrive for generations to come. Thank you for all you do, Jackie, you are a real Born Free Wildlife Hero!”

Image of three men in face masks and medical clothing standing over a cheetah on an operating table

WILDLIFE HEROES

Meet the Wildlife Heroes – the real people on the front line of Born Free’s work to protect wild animals.

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