An Embrace facilitator with SANParks rangers. Purpose of Embrace Embrace’s purpose is to effectively address the emotional challenges of field rangers, their extended family members (where possible) and other employees (on request), with the focus on their psycho-social wellbeing, enabling them to function at their best. This is achieved through presenting a Proactive Preventative Trauma and Stress Management Programme. During 2023/2024, Embrace was requested to facilitate debriefing sessions with SANParks teams following traumatic events experienced by staff. Partnering with SANParks Embrace was honoured when the CEO of SANParks, Ms Hapiloe Sello signed the official mandate formalising the partnership between SANParks and Embrace on 29 June 2023. Embrace’s impact Embrace’s core value is the passion that fuels the connection between the Embrace member and the SANParks field ranger – resulting in a strong interpersonal bond. If but one field ranger leaves a session with hope, feeling heard and validated and encouraged to continue his/her commitment with determination and integrity, then the efforts of the Embrace team are deemed worthwhile. Member training Embrace members received online training on the Community Resiliency Model which forms part of the theoretical framework for Embrace. Angarhelani Mindyangu Field rangers face tremendous stress and challenges in their daily work. The effects are also felt by their families and spouses. Angarhelani Mindyangu means ‘Embrace Families’ and aims to support and honour the women who must support their husbands, sons, fathers, brothers. Embrace was initiated during 2016 and implemented from 2017 in response to a request by SANParks. During the past year, Embrace has been expanded to the Mountain Zebra and Karoo National Parks and the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, bringing the total to 14 parks. 82 SANParks Honorary Rangers 2024 EMBRACE NATIONAL PROJECT Members’ activities continued
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