Herding goats can be tedious, and Constable Jane Tayiana did a lot of it growing up in a remote corner of Big Life’s operating area. The highlight of her days was watching the wild animals grazing nearby, and elephants in particular took her breath away.

She aspired to become a safari guide, but her path eventually led her to Big Life, where she has worked as a community ranger for two years now and loves the fact that she spends her days protecting the animals that she fell in in love with as a child.

Constable Faith Ntooki grew up in the foothills of the Chyulu Hills and is remarkably following in her father’s footsteps. He also worked as a Big Life ranger and instilled in her a passion for wildlife. He sadly passed when she was young, and she was on the verge of dropping out of school when her family couldn’t afford the fees.

Faith’s fortunes changed when she earned a scholarship from Big Life, thanks to the Capricorn Foundation, allowing her to complete her secondary schooling. By becoming a ranger, she is continuing to honor her father’s legacy.  

Both rangers are demonstrating to their local community, and the world, that they are just as capable of protecting Amboseli’s wildlife as their male counterparts. From anti-poaching patrols to preventing human-wildlife conflict, Big Life’s 10 female rangers are working for a more equitable society in a field dominated by men.

Supporting our rangers, including Constables Tayiana and Ntooki, with stable funding is crucial for safeguarding East Africa's wildlife, habitats, and Maasai communities. Please join our Ranger Club with a monthly contribution to sustain their efforts. Every contribution makes a difference!

New members or those increasing their July donation receive a special gift.  You’ll also enjoy exclusive program updates, 20% off Big Life merchandise in our e-store, and the satisfaction of directly impacting conservation efforts in East Africa. Thank you for your support! Photo: Joshua Clay