How Shandor Larenty is using social media to champion animal welfare
With millions of followers across TikTok and Instagram and a lion named George as one of his closest companions, Shandor Larenty is not your average influencer.
While the internet knows him for his viral moments and captivating wildlife content, Shandor Larenty spends most of his days behind the scenes at the Lion & Safari Park, where he works as part of the animal welfare division, proving that his real passion lies in conservation, care, and connection.
Shandor's journey into the world of wildlife began at a young age, evolving from a childhood fascination into a deep-seated commitment. Now, as the Head of Animal Care at The Bothongo Group, his role is multifaceted, combining hands-on care with strategic oversight across their properties.
He manages everything from nutrition planning and enclosure design to health monitoring and breeding programmes, working closely with veterinary teams to ensure practices meet the highest ethical and scientific standards.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Shandor's work is the deep connection he shares with George, the lion. Their bond, forged over a decade, is a testament to consistent presence, patience, and mutual respect. This kind of relationship, seen with many animals at the park, truly showcases the profound trust he builds with these powerful creatures.
Shandor's viral social media presence serves a higher purpose. He expertly balances his duties as an animal caretaker with his role as a content creator, ensuring animal welfare always comes first. His platforms are not just for entertainment; they are a window into the complex world of wildlife care, designed to educate, inspire, and foster a deeper understanding of conservation.
As he continues to make a name for himself in both wild animal care and content creation, Shandor opens up about his passion for wildlife, his connection with George, content creation and everything in between.
What inspired your passion for wildlife, and how did you get started in animal care?
My passion for wildlife really began at a young age. Growing up around animals sparked something in me that never left. I was lucky to be immersed in environments where I could witness the incredible complexity of animal behaviour up close. Over time, that fascination developed into a deeper commitment to understanding, caring for, and ultimately protecting these animals. What started as curiosity became a career rooted in purpose.
You are Head of Animal Care at The Bothongo Group. What does your new role entail?
It’s a multi-faceted role that combines hands-on care with strategic oversight. I manage the welfare and care of all animals across our properties, from feed and nutrition planning to enclosure design, health monitoring, and breeding programmes. I also work closely with our veterinary teams and animal care staff to ensure that our practices meet both ethical and scientific standards. Another critical aspect is integrating conservation goals into operational planning, while also aligning the parks to be film-friendly to support broader education and engagement.
Was there a defining moment when you knew this would be your life's work?
There wasn't one single moment; it was more a series of experiences that made it very clear this was where I was meant to be. But if I had to choose, working with George, our lion, was pivotal. Building that bond, knowing he trusted me enough to let me into his world. completely solidified my commitment to this path. It’s something that stays with you.
How do you build trust with such powerful animals?
Trust is everything, and it's earned over time through consistency, patience, and presence. You learn to read body language, respect boundaries, and show up for them every day without expecting anything in return. That mutual understanding, when it develops, becomes something really powerful. With George, that connection has been over a decade in the making. It’s rooted in years of shared space, positive reinforcement, and respect.
What does a typical day in your role look like?
There's no such thing as a typical day, which is what makes the job so rewarding. One day might involve reviewing dietary plans, overseeing a medical procedure, or walking an enclosure for inspections. Another might be spent consulting with our conservation teams, updating welfare protocols, or collaborating on a filming project. It’s a dynamic role that requires balancing structure with the unpredictability that comes with working with wildlife.
Your TikTok and Instagram videos have gone viral worldwide. How do you balance being an animal caretaker and a content creator?
It’s a balancing act, for sure. The welfare of the animals will always come first; that's non-negotiable. But I’ve learnt how to capture moments authentically without compromising their routine or wellbeing. Social media is just a lens into what we do; it shouldn’t interfere with it. I strive to share genuine stories that reflect the depth of these animals and our work with them, rather than staging something for clicks.
What role do you think social media plays in conservation awareness, and how have you managed to shine a light on it?
Social media is a powerful tool. It can take conservation messages to millions of people who might never set foot in a park or a reserve. It’s about storytelling, about making people care. By showcasing the personalities behind the species, the challenges they face, and the efforts involved in their care, we make the conversation more relatable and human. I try to use the platform to start conversations and break down misconceptions, while also celebrating the incredible bonds that are possible between humans and animals.
What advice would you give to young people who want to work with wildlife?
Be prepared to work hard. This field demands commitment and humility. Start by learning everything you can: volunteer, intern, study animal behaviour, and find mentors who can guide you. But more than anything, respect the animals. It’s not about control, it’s about connection. If you’re in it for the right reasons, the animals will sense that, and that’s when the real magic happens.
Shandor Larenty exemplifies a new generation of conservationists who are leveraging digital platforms to bridge the gap between wildlife and the global public. His dedication to animal welfare, coupled with his engaging storytelling, ensures that critical messages about animal health and conservation resonate with millions, fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world.
Shandor Larenty represents a new generation of conservationists harnessing the power of digital platforms to connect global audiences with the realities of wildlife care. His commitment to animal welfare, paired with his gift for compelling storytelling, ensures that vital messages about conservation and animal health reach millions. In doing so, he not only educates but also inspires countless followers to engage more deeply with wildlife, often by visiting destinations like the Lion & Safari Park, where guests can experience Africa’s most iconic animals up close and firsthand.
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