Rifumo Named Obama Foundation's 2026 African Leaders

We are thrilled to announce that Rifumo Mathebula, Programme Director at Wild Shots Outreach, has been selected as one of the Obama Foundation's 2026 African Leaders!

The Obama Foundation’s prestigious programme identifies exceptional leaders from across Africa who are driving innovative, positive change in their communities and beyond. Rifumo will join an inspiring network of emerging leaders, receiving world-class leadership development training while collaborating with changemakers from across the continent.

For everyone at Wild Shots Outreach, this recognition is especially meaningful because Rifumo's journey began with us.

Growing up in a rural community bordering the Kruger National Park, Rifumo spent much of his childhood herding livestock and often missing school. Like many young people living alongside Africa's protected areas, he had never experienced wildlife firsthand.

That all changed when he joined Wild Shots Outreach…

Seeing wildlife for the first time ignited a passion for conservation. Photography gave him confidence, purpose and a voice. Today, he leads our programmes, inspiring thousands of young people to connect with nature, develop valuable life skills and discover new opportunities.

"I am overwhelmed to receive this honour. It shows that where you come from does not define where you can go. I hope my journey encourages other young people to dare to dream. Photography gave me a voice, conservation gave me purpose, and now I want to help other young Africans discover that same passion and belief in themselves. My vision is to build a future where young people living alongside our National Parks see themselves as leaders in protecting Africa's wildlife."

– Rifumo Mathebula

Founder Mike Kendrick believes Rifumo's achievement demonstrates the transformative power of investing in young people:

"Watching Rifumo grow from one of our first students into an internationally recognised leader has been one of the greatest privileges of my life. His selection by the Obama Foundation validates not only his remarkable leadership, but also the impact that Wild Shots Outreach is having in empowering young Africans to become the conservation leaders of tomorrow."

NB - Please be aware that Rifumo’s award in no way suggests approval or endorsement of WSO by the Obama Foundation, President Obama, or Mrs. Obama.