South African conservationist Paul Gardiner’s new series ‘Natural Born Runners’ is set to take us on something of a conservation ‘marathon’ across the world! Paul is running all over the world’s last wilderness areas to meet wildlife heroes near and far:
Global (15 October 2024) — Conservationist and eco-tourism expert Paul Gardiner is taking us all on the run of multiple lifetimes thanks to his new series, ‘Natural Born Runners’.
Set to launch during the COP16 summit (AKA, the most important biodiversity event that unites eco-leaders across the world), ‘Natural Born Runners’ is set to take us all on a conservation adventure into and through some of the last wilderness areas in the world focused on the theme ‘Peace with Nature’ in line with COP16.
From icy terrains to open grasslands, Paul’s running shoes will take him across the world in a massive effort to learn about what conservationists are getting up to in their effort to prolong species’ environments and lifetimes.
A deep-rooted passion, Paul was born into a family for whom conservation efforts like rewilding were a labour of love. His father was a visionary who transformed Shamwari Game Reserve in the Eastern Cape into one of the world’s leading conservation success stories; helping reintroduce lions, rhinos and elephants back into their natural habitat.
As such, Paul begins his trek in the Eastern Cape; retracing these efforts. From there, he ventures to Scotland’s Alladale Wilderness Reserve all the way to North America to learn of the inspiring restoration of the American bison there.
‘Natural Born Runners’ will also see him participate in Run Richmond 16.19—a race founded by Oscar-nominated actor and activist Djimon Hounsou (Amistad, Gladiator).
Along for the ride is Paul’s cameraman and aspiring wildlife filmmaker Christian Antoine, who makes up for what he lacks in endurance running through comedy and edutainment.
The series is set to be launched on YouTube as a way to connect with the next generation of nature’s guardians—young people.
“We need to inspire the youth to take ownership of the planet’s future, and YouTube is where they engage,” says Paul.
“If we’re going to make peace with nature, the next generation needs to be at the forefront.”
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