Sean Often Supports Conservation from the Sky, But Here’s Why He’s Running 100km For Rangers

Photo Credit: Sean James via Sports for Lives

This year, Sean James will be trading his anti-poaching aircraft wings for running shoes and a gruelling 100km stretch of solid ground, standing in solidarity with the men and women who risk their lives daily to protect our natural heritage.

KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa (30 January 2026) – Purpose is that one thing that gives our life true meaning. Sean James finds his in the natural world, driven by a mission to safeguard wildlife and support the people dedicated to ensuring its survival.

As a pilot for the Brady Hunter Foundation, Sean spends a lot of his time supporting conservation efforts from the sky in his aircraft. The Foundation is partners with Project Rhino, and last year sponsored the purchase of a state-of-the-art ZAP-WING aircraft, equipped with cutting-edge technology to help combat the imminent threat of poaching faced by endangered rhinos and other vulnerable species.

“I’m driven by my faith, my love for aviation, and a deep passion for preserving our wildlife. I believe the gifts I’ve been given are meant to serve a higher purpose, and I use my love of flying to help protect wildlife and support the people on the ground who dedicate their lives to conservation,” Sean shares on his passion.

This year, he will be protecting wildlife in a different yet just as meaningful way, by running Run For Rangers – a 2-day, 100km run through Babanango Game Reserve. And he’s doing it all to stand alongside the men and women who risk their lives every day to protect our natural heritage.

“While I often fight this battle from the sky, I know the work on the ground is just as intense. Through this run, I want rangers to know they are seen, supported, and not fighting alone.”

Sean says running allows him to channel his passion for fitness into real conservation impact.

“Every kilometre helps raise awareness and vital resources to keep rangers trained, equipped, and effective. I’ve been running on and off for about 10 years, love a challenge, and I’m proud to add Run For Rangers to my growing wall of runs.”