Pretoria, South Africa – Monday, 09 June 2025
Time is running out for non-profit organisations to submit their entries for the inaugural Defender Awards, with the deadline set for 16 June 2025. With just days remaining, Land Rover Defender is calling on small*, grassroots organisations across seven countries — including South Africa, the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Australia, and Japan — to seize the opportunity to gain global recognition, vital resources, and expert mentorship.
This pioneering awards programme is part of Defender’s £1 million commitment to support the extraordinary individuals and teams working tirelessly to safeguard the planet and its people. At stake are seven grand prizes, each comprising a £100,000 bursary, a rugged Defender vehicle to support on-the-ground efforts, and access to a dedicated mentorship network of experts in conservation and humanitarian work.
“We’ve launched the Defender Awards to recognise and support conservation and humanitarian heroes,” says Mark Cameron, Managing Director, Defender. “This programme represents an investment in people who are effecting real change, often under the radar and in some of the world’s most challenging environments. I urge all eligible organisations to submit their entries before 16 June.”
Four Categories, One Mission: Driving Impact
Entries are being accepted in four distinct but equally vital categories:
- Defenders of the Wild – for organisations protecting endangered and at-risk species
- Defenders of the Sea – for efforts safeguarding marine life and environments
- Defenders of the Land – for initiatives restoring and protecting fragile ecosystems
- Defenders of Humanity – for those supporting vulnerable and underserved communities
Each category represents a core pillar of Defender’s longstanding commitment to purpose-driven work — a legacy dating back to 1954 when the brand’s vehicles first served frontline roles with Red Cross nurses in Kenya and Dubai. More recently, its two-decade partnership with Tusk has helped strengthen biodiversity and wildlife protection across Africa.
From Local Efforts to Global Impact
The Defender Awards are designed to champion small* organisations making a big difference. A panel of national judges will shortlist two entries per category from each participating country, creating a 56-strong shortlist. From there, a global panel of distinguished conservationists and humanitarian leaders will select the seven final award recipients.
Each winner will not only receive funding and a vehicle but will also join a powerful global network — unlocking new opportunities for collaboration, resource-sharing, and long-term sustainability.
Enter Now
For eligible non-profits in South Africa and beyond, this is a rare opportunity to elevate your mission, strengthen your impact, and gain the support of an iconic global brand that believes in the power of purpose.
*Small non-profit refers to independently-run conservation or humanitarian organisations with limited operational budgets and local or regional impact.
**Terms and conditions apply to vehicle award. See full entry requirements online.
