Celebrating Growth

Posted on Wed August 27, 2025.

This year has been filled with exciting changes at Cango Wildlife Ranch. We have welcomed new team members, celebrated well-deserved promotions, and seen students and casual workers step into permanent positions. Each story reflects dedication, growth, and a deep passion for wildlife and conservation. Our Ranch family has grown stronger than ever.

We are proud to celebrate the following staff members who have taken on new titles and responsibilities in 2025:

Students and Casual Workers Promoted to Permanent Positions

 

  • Montay Arries – Maintenance Assistant (10 March) 
  • Hermanus Ekstraal– Animal Assistant (10 March) *unavailable for a photo
  • Lesley Ann Jelander– Animal Assistant (01 May) 
  • Pippa Fourie – Animal Caregiver (01 June) 
  • Jackie Coltman – Kitchen Assistant (04 June) 
  • Yulan Kuyler – Wildlife Guardian (01 August)
  • Jennifer Barnard – General Cleaner (07 August) 
  • Jonathan Menzies – Wildlife Guardian (15 August)

Staff Promotions 

  • Dedré Rupping – Zoological Manager (01 May) 
  • Navin Winster – Head Wildlife Guardian (01 May)
  • Garrett Eriksen – Academic Programme Coordinator (01 May)
  • Pieter Hall – WAV Manager (01 July)
  • Jacques Coetzee – Assistant Maintenance Manager (28 July)
  • Zizipho Mey – Maintenance Admin Assistant (01 September)
  • Allan Plaatjies – Team Lead Maintenance (01 September) 

New Employees

  • Arno Engelbrecht – Feed Coordinator (09 March) 
  • Mandla Diamond– Maintenance Supervisor (05 May) 
  • Tsepiso Marenene – Assistant Curator of Sustainability (01 September) 
  • Vivian Hendricks – Team Lead Maintenance (01 September) 
  • Lu-Shane Uithaler – Team Lead Maintenance (01 September) 

Each of these individuals plays a vital role in the daily care of our animals, the smooth running of our operations, and the continued success of our conservation and education efforts. Their growth reflects the values we hold dear; dedication, passion, and commitment to making a difference.

To our newly promoted and newly appointed team members, congratulations. We are proud of your achievements and excited to see all that you will accomplish in your new roles.

Further Reading

A New Home At Last! Fri December 26, 2025

We are thrilled to share that our Squirrel Monkeys are now officially on display in their purpose-built habitat, Saimiri Ruins, marking the culmination of a journey that has been years in the making. Early on the morning of Tuesday, 22 December, the radio call finally came through: “Attention all stations, attention all stations. We will now move the Squirrel Monkeys to their new habitat.”

Read This Article
The Explorium: Where The Story of Cango Wildlife Comes Alive Fri December 26, 2025

Earlier this week, we quietly opened the doors to something new at Cango Wildlife. Tucked away from the bustle of pathways and enclosures, The Explorium is a small space with a big purpose. It is a place to pause, reflect, and connect more deeply with who we are and why we do what we do.

Read This Article
A Season of New Beginnings Fri December 26, 2025

Over the past month, births, rescues, rehabilitation efforts and on-site projects have brought renewed life and purpose to Cango Wildlife, making this festive season a powerful reminder that the most meaningful celebrations are often marked by new life and second chances. A baby boom has swept through the facility, and as Christmas has passed and the year draws to a close, these arrivals stand as a symbol of hope, care and continuity...

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