Coffee and Conservation: The Story Behind The Last Ranger with Cindy and David Lee

The Last Ranger: Behind the Scenes with Cindy and David Lee

At Global Conservation Force, we believe in the power of storytelling to inspire action and awareness about critical conservation issues. In this blog, we’re thrilled to share highlights from our latest podcast episode of Coffee and Conservation, where we spoke with the creative minds behind the award-winning short film, The Last Ranger.

Directed by Cindy Lee and written by David Lee, The Last Ranger is a gripping narrative inspired by true events in South Africa’s Eastern Cape. The story focuses on Thandi, a rhino who miraculously survived a brutal poaching attack at Kariega Game Reserve, and the lone woman who fought to protect these iconic animals in the face of adversity.

Cindy Lee: A Journey from Commercials to Academy Recognition

Cindy Lee began her career as a copywriter but soon transitioned to directing commercials, where she honed her meticulous attention to detail. Her passion for long-form storytelling led her to create impactful projects like Horn, a short screenplay about rhino poaching that won at the New York Picture Start Film Festival.

Cindy’s talent has earned her multiple SAFTA (South African Film and Television Award) nominations, including recognition for her work on Sober Companion and Desert Rose. In 2022, she directed The Last Ranger, which has been celebrated at prestigious film festivals and shortlisted for the 97th Academy Awards in 2025. Cindy’s commitment to conservation storytelling continues to resonate on both local and international platforms.

David Lee: A Hollywood Career Rooted in South African Stories

David Lee began his career in South Africa’s theater and television scene, earning acclaim for his powerful performances. After moving to the United States, he built a successful Hollywood career, appearing in iconic productions like Black Panther, Blood Diamond, and Geostorm.

As the writer of The Last Ranger, David brings a deep understanding of the challenges faced by wildlife and those who protect it. His storytelling captures the urgency of conservation while honoring the courage of individuals like Thandi and her caretakers.

A Story of Resilience and Conservation Impact

The Last Ranger is more than a film—it’s a tribute to the resilience of wildlife and the unwavering dedication of conservationists. Thandi’s survival after a near-fatal poaching attack, at Kariega Game Reserve, and her remarkable recovery represent hope in the ongoing fight against wildlife crime.

Through their conversation on Coffee and Conservation, Cindy and David share the creative and emotional journey behind the film, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in conservation.

Listen Now

Tune in to the full podcast episode to hear Cindy and David’s insights on filmmaking, their dedication to conservation, and the incredible true story that inspired The Last Ranger. Grab a cup of coffee and join us in celebrating the intersection of art, storytelling, and wildlife protection.

Learn More About Kindred Films

The Last Ranger was brought to life through the creative vision of Kindred Films, a production team dedicated to crafting meaningful stories that inspire change. With a passion for conservation and storytelling, the Kindred Films crew worked closely with Cindy and David Lee to ensure every detail of the film resonated with authenticity and purpose.

Kindred Films specializes in projects that spotlight pressing environmental and social issues, bringing together talented professionals in cinematography, direction, and production to create impactful narratives. To learn more about their mission, other projects, and their commitment to conservation, visit