Our team · Ranger
Zdeněk “Zulu” Syrový
From French Foreign Legion soldier to protector of Africa's wildlife.
A story of transformation and determination — a life full of contrasts, from the brutal reality of the battlefield to the quiet beauty of the African wilderness. His experience in the military and in security helped Zdeněk become a respected protector of elephants and rhinos and a fighter against poaching.
Foreign Legion
Elite military training
Cross for Military Valour
with bronze star
VIP protection
Gates · Alwaleed · Soros
Across Africa
Cameroon · Malawi · South Africa
A life's journey
From soldier to protector
01 — The beginning
Foreign Legion
After his basic military service, he joined the Foreign Legion in search of adventure. He came through gruelling training and harsh conditions; his determination and ability to face danger earned him the Cross for Military Valour with bronze star and other decorations. The battlefield gave him a strong character and the ability to cope with extreme stress.
02 — Close protection
Security consultant and bodyguard
After the Legion, he protected prominent figures — his clients included Bill Gates, Prince Alwaleed and George Soros. Working in an environment full of tension and risk demanded vigilance, analytical thinking, top physical fitness and mental resilience.
03 — The Indian Ocean
Sailing on cargo ships
He protected ships and crews from pirate attacks in the Indian Ocean. He learned to work in a team, coordinate actions and respond to threats in an instant — and realised once again how fragile human life is and how important it is to protect yourself and others.
2011 — The turning point
Tragedy in Kruger
While visiting Kruger National Park, he came across a dead elephant whose tusks had been hacked off. That moment affected him deeply — he realised he had the skills and experience to help in the fight against poaching.
2012 — A new direction
Fighting poaching
He became actively involved in protecting elephants, rhinos and other endangered species. His experience fighting terrorism and organised crime helped him understand poachers' tactics — and teach anti-poaching units how to fight them effectively.
Today — Mentor
Training rangers across Africa
As a certified Field Ranger Instructor Mentor (FRIM), he visits reserves and parks in Cameroon, the Central African Republic, Malawi, Mozambique and South Africa, sharing his knowledge and training local rangers. His goal is to strengthen nature conservation and protect endangered species.
We believe every step towards protecting nature matters.
— Zdeněk “Zulu” Syrový
From his life
In the field
Join the protection effort
Support the work of people like Zulu — with a donation, your skills or your time.