Global Conservation Force is powered by a diverse team of conservation professionals, educators, instructors, field specialists, veterinarians, volunteers, and ambassadors who work together to protect endangered wildlife around the world. From developing conservation programs and educating future wildlife professionals to supporting anti-poaching operations and community-based conservation initiatives, every member of our team plays an important role in advancing our mission.
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In addition to our U.S.-based leadership and global network of experts, GCF directly supports and operates field teams alongside our conservation partners. One of our flagship collaborations is the GCF–Kariega Game Reserve Anti-Poaching Unit in South Africa, where highly trained rangers, K9 teams, mounted patrols, and advanced technology work together to protect wildlife and combat poaching.
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The people featured below represent the many individuals who make Global Conservation Force possible—from our Board of Directors and staff to our instructors, conservation officers, and ambassadors. Together, they bring decades of experience in wildlife conservation, anti-poaching, veterinary medicine, education, emergency medicine, law enforcement, military service, and community outreach, all united by a shared commitment to protecting wildlife and preserving biodiversity for future generations.
DIRECTORS
Mike Veale
Founder | CEO
Amandine Gillet
Director Wildlife & Exotics Veterinarian, DVM
Rob Sorensen
Director
Ashley Salas
Director Secretary and External Legal Counsel
Jeff Littrell
Director Events and Public Outreach
Shalini Babu
Director Treasurer
TEAM
Natasha Frolander
Vice President
Chris Laursen
Lead Field Medic | Instructor
Dylan Wehner
Instructor
Amy Hypnarowski
Volunteer Coordinator
Lauren Lee
Education Outreach Coordinator
Brierley McCubbins
Field Journalist
Amanda Smith
Anti-Poaching | Law Enforcement Instructor
Elias Blaset
Conservation Officer
Jaclyn Ekhaml
Conservation Officer
Erin Martin
Conservation Officer
Brandon Davis
Conservation Officer
Lauren Watine
Conservation Officer
CELEBRITY AMBASSADORS
Anna Dimitriadis
Conservation Ambassador
Mario Aldecoa
Conservation Ambassador Trip Guide
Anthony Porter
Conservation Ambassador Trip Guide
Coyote Peterson
Conservation Ambassador
Blake Moynes
Conservation Ambassador GCF Honorary Ranger
Bear Grylls
Conservation Ambassador for "Save The Horns"
The Global Conservation Force (GCF) – Kariega Game Reserve Anti-Poaching Unit exemplifies a collaborative and multi-faceted approach to wildlife protection. GCF has devoted significant time and resources to create an exceptionally effective anti-poaching unit, employing various strategies and resources to safeguard the reserve and surrounding areas.
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Central to the unit are its field rangers, extensively trained in wildlife protection, patrolling techniques, and community engagement. These rangers are the cornerstone of anti-poaching efforts, conducting regular patrols and monitoring wildlife to deter poachers.
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Additionally, the unit boasts highly trained K9 teams proficient in tracking, scent detection, and apprehension. These dogs play a crucial role in locating poachers and preventing illegal activities, working in close coordination with the field rangers to enhance wildlife protection.
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The unit also includes a mounted anti-poaching unit, conducting patrols on horseback to cover large areas of the reserve efficiently and serve as a visible deterrent to poachers.
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To bolster its protection efforts, the GCF – Kariega Game Reserve Anti-Poaching Unit leverages high-tech integrations such as drones for aerial surveillance, camera traps for monitoring wildlife activity, and GPS tracking devices for monitoring wildlife and potential poachers.
Notably, GCF and Kariega Game Reserve collaborate closely to operate, manage, and fund this anti-poaching unit, underscoring their shared commitment to wildlife protection and biodiversity preservation in the area.
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Moreover, all rangers in the unit have undergone GCF’s intensive training course, equipping them with essential skills and knowledge for wildlife protection and anti-poaching. They receive regular advanced training programs from GCF Field Instructors, ensuring they remain updated with the latest techniques and strategies. Additionally, rangers receive complementary training and certificates to enhance their daily operational success, including specialized training in tactical man-tracking, arrest procedures, and crime scene investigation.
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Through continuous investment in ranger training and development, the GCF – Kariega Game Reserve Anti-Poaching Unit maintains a highly skilled, motivated, and effective team dedicated to protecting wildlife and preserving biodiversity.
