Award-Winning “The Last Ranger” Tackles Rhino Poaching and Female Empowerment

The Last Ranger, a South African short film, has gained international recognition. The film tells a gripping story about rhino poaching and conservation efforts. Directed by Cindy Lee, it has earned several awards at prestigious film festivals worldwide.

A Powerful Story of Conservation and Empowerment
The story follows young Litha (played by Liyabona Mroqoza), who is introduced to a game reserve by the last remaining ranger, Khuselwa (played by Avumile Qongqo). Their adventure takes a dark turn when poachers attack, leading to a fight to protect rhinos and uncover a devastating secret. The film touches on themes of environmental justice and women’s empowerment.

Award-Winning Film
Since its release, The Last Ranger has won multiple awards. It received the Best Narrative Short Film award at the Pan African Film Festival, San Diego International Film Festival, and Cordillera Film Festival. These wins have qualified the film for Oscar consideration in the Best Live Action Short Film category at the 2025 Academy Awards.

In addition, the film earned Best Screenplay and Best Actress awards for Liyabona Mroqoza and Avumile Qongqo. It has also been recognized at festivals such as the Cleveland International Film Festival, Indy Shorts, the American Conservation Film Festival, and the Pretoria Film Festival.

Film Screening and Community Engagement
On November 15, the film was screened at the Isivivana Centre in Khayelitsha. During the event, the Thanda Choir performed, and their collaboration on the film’s score with composer John Powell went viral. A Q&A session with Director Cindy Lee and actors Avumile Qongqo and Waldemar Schultz followed the screening, offering insights into the film and its themes.

Director’s Perspective
Cindy Lee expressed how proud she was of the film’s reception. “I wanted to create a story that resonates in South Africa and across the world. I’m honored that the film sparks important conversations on conservation, social change, and empowerment,” said Lee.

Anele Mdoda, executive producer of Rose and Oaks Media, emphasized the importance of storytelling in raising awareness about environmental conservation. “This story, told in IsiXhosa, resonates with international audiences and highlights the urgency of environmental issues,” Mdoda said.

Full List of Awards
Here is a full list of awards that The Last Ranger has earned:

• Pan African Film Festival: Best Narrative Short Film (Oscar eligibility)
• Toronto International Women’s Film Festival: Best Narrative Short
• LA Independent Women Film Awards: Best Narrative Short & Best Youth Actress (Liyabona Mroqoza)
• Atlantic Film Festival: Best Actress (Avumile Qongqo) & Best Short Script
• International Images Film Festival for Women: Best Narrative Short
• Cascade Festival of African Films: Official Selection
• Pretoria Film Festival: Best Screenplay, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actress, Production Design
• Portland EcoFilm Festival: Finalist
• American Conservation Film Festival: Green Fire Award & Audience Award
• Cleveland International Film Festival: Clover and Maggie Award Winner & Audience Award Best Short Film Runner-Up
• Blackstar International Film Festival: Best Short Film & Best Youth Actress
• Salute Shorts Film Festival: Honourable Mention 2024
• Indy Shorts International Film Festival: Audience Choice Award Best Narrative Drama 2024
• HollyShorts Film Festival: Finalist Best Film 2024
• Heartland International Film Festival: Best of Fest Special Screening
• Cordillera International Film Festival: Best Drama Short
• San Diego International Film Festival: Best Drama Short 2024
• Hells Half Mile Film and Music Festival: Grand Jury Prize Best Short Film & Audience Award Best Short

The Last Ranger is a standout short film that addresses critical issues such as rhino poaching and environmental conservation. With its compelling story and universal message, it continues to gain recognition and inspire discussions on global conservation efforts.