---
title: "Conservation world mourns loss of visionary leader Sharon Haussmann"
description: "Sharon Haussmann, a trailblazer in the field of conservation and the CEO of the Greater Kruger Environmental Protection Foundation, has died."
type: "NewsArticle"
publisher: "Daily Maverick"
site: "https://www.dailymaverick.co.za"
section: "OBITUARY"
author: "Don Pinnock"
author_url: "https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/author/donpinnock/"
canonical_url: "https://www.dailymaverick.co.za/article/2025-06-02-conservation-world-mourns-loss-of-visionary-leader-sharon-haussmann/"
published: "2025-06-02T21:28:49"
updated: "2025-06-02T21:28:51"
lang: "en-ZA"
word_count: 423
---

# Conservation world mourns loss of visionary leader Sharon Haussmann

> Sharon Haussmann, a trailblazer in the field of conservation and the CEO of the Greater Kruger Environmental Protection Foundation, has died.

By Don Pinnock · Published 2 June 2025, 23:28 SAST · Updated 2 June 2025, 23:28 SAST

## Key points
- The conservation world is reeling from the loss of Sharon Haussmann, a fierce protector of South Africa’s wildlife whose strategic brilliance and wicked humour transformed the Greater Kruger Environmental Protection Foundation into a powerhouse of unity and action, leaving behind a legacy as indelible as the rhinos she adored.
- The conservation community mourns the loss of Sharon Haussmann, a revered figure known for her strategic brilliance and deep commitment to wildlife.
- As CEO of the Greater Kruger Environmental Protection Foundation, she transformed partnerships among diverse stakeholders in South Africa’s conservation landscape.
- Haussmann's hands-on approach included darting rhinos and mentoring young rangers, showcasing her dedication to frontline conservation efforts.
- Her legacy will endure through the countless lives she touched and the initiatives she championed, as SANParks pledges to honour her memory.

## Content

Her death last weekend has sent ripples of grief across the conservation community, where she was widely admired for her relentless drive, strategic brilliance and deep love of wildlife.

Haussmann was more than a CEO – she was a connector, mentor and fierce protector of South Africa’s natural heritage.

![Sharon Haussmann, a trailblazer in the field of conservation and the CEO of the Greater Kruger Environmental Protection Foundation. (Photo: GKRPF)](https://cdn.dailymaverick.co.za/i/YY51UzoHh4BfoLbZppndjJ_tGc4=/200x100/smart/filters:strip_exif\(\)/file/dailymaverick/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Presentation-84.jpg)

*Sharon Haussmann, a trailblazer in the field of conservation and the CEO of the Greater Kruger Environmental Protection Foundation. (Photo: GKRPF)*

Known for her wicked humour and capacity to inspire those around her, she led the Greater Kruger Environmental Protection Foundation (GKEPF) through a pivotal period of transformation. With great skill, she united fragmented stakeholders, from private landowners to public institutions, forging partnerships in one of the country’s most contested conservation landscapes.

“Sharon’s leadership acumen was evident in every engagement,” said SANParks Board Chairperson Pam Yako in a statement on Monday, 2 June 2025.

“Her clarity of thought, strategic foresight and deep understanding of the complexities of conservation partnerships consistently elevated the quality of dialogue and decision-making.”

Under Haussmann’s leadership, GKEPF became a key strategic partner of the Kruger National Park and SANParks. Her work helped build the foundation for Vision 2040, SANParks’ new agenda for inclusive, sustainable conservation.

Yet her passion was always grounded in action. Whether darting rhinos, coordinating anti-poaching units or organising youth soccer tournaments in remote communities, Haussmann was hands-on. Her presence in Balule, where she lived, exemplified her commitment to living and working at the frontline of conservation challenges.

![Sharon Huissmann. (Photo: Facebook)](https://cdn.dailymaverick.co.za/i/4ySqk6LknccuwUTwVcb7JcSi1VI=/200x100/smart/filters:strip_exif\(\)/file/dailymaverick/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Facebook-.jpg)

*Sharon Haussmann. (Photo: Facebook)*

“She influenced, connected, persuaded and inspired,” said the GKEPF in a heartfelt Facebook tribute. “From relocating rhinos to mentoring young rangers, Sharon approached every task with courage and enthusiasm.”

She was especially devoted to rhinos and spotted hyenas – animals she defended with fervent conviction. But it was her people skills that made her irreplaceable. She had a rare ability to make others feel valued and empowered, never standing on ceremony, always leading from the front.

Sharon Haussmann is survived by her husband, Robin Haussmann and their son, Aden.

The GKEPF family expressed its heartbreak in a public statement, noting that “her presence, strength, and leadership will be sorely missed”.

SANParks said in a media statement that it would “honour her memory by recommitting ourselves to the path she eloquently helped to forge – one of unity, innovation and unwavering dedication to the protection of our natural heritage”.

Her legacy, etched into the landscapes she fought to protect, will live on in every rhino rescued, every fence line patrolled and every young conservationist she inspired. **DM**