At a very young age, this Swiss citizen developed a fascination for the animal world. Animal documentaries and the support of various animal protection organizations have always been a big part of his life. As he grew up, his love for them quickly prevailed his professional life. Dean Schneider dedicated his life to present and protect Wildlife. His mission is to bring animals into people’s hearts because he says that we only protect what we love.
He gave up his wealth and materialism to go to South Africa and build a sanctuary of some sort where volunteers can go to save wildlife. For this purpose he set up a club, Hakuna Mipaka. Hakuna Mipaka is a way of living which originated from the values: freedom, loyalty, appreciation, brotherhood and boldness.
The Hakuna Mipaka club covers an area of more than 400 hectares. Part of the land is dedicated to housing people born into disastrous situations, but the rest of it is left for wildlife rescue, allowing animals like zebras, impala, kudu, hyenas, and baboons to live in freedom.
He needs to employ guards on the land for security purposes, in order to keep poachers from entering at night to hunt the animals.
Despite the difficult time and hurdles on his way to achieve his goals, Dean remained on his mission. He believes in the power of knowledge, passion and visual stories in order to change peoples’ perceptions and save the wildlife.
Through this incredible love to animals, he learned to understand these wonderful creatures as well as gaining the ability to build a special bond with them. Schneider’s heart belongs entirely to the Wildlife. Dean has truly found his bliss and is making positive change throughout the world.
