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John was born around 1975 (maasai have often an approximate idea of their age, because when they are born there are no birth certificates)He grew up in Ngoswani, which is one of the surrounding areas of Saruni. He has 2 wives and is father to 6 children; 4 boys and 2 girls. John has had a typical maasai up bringing in what is a well-known clan of the Northern Mara region. When asked which is his favourite animal, he answers with a big smile: “Simba, of course!”. In fact, 16 years ago, as a young maasai warrior (moran), John and 14 of his fellow age-mates took part in the maasai ritual of killing a lion to proove their masculinity and their adherence to maasai warfare skills. John was the first one to throw his spear, which was a symbol of bravery and secured his status as one of the most respected elders within the area. In 1993 John traded in his maasai spear and red “shuka” for a pair of Nikon binoculars and a kaki uniform, becaming a conservationist. He began his career working as a ranger in the maasai-run Rhino Sanctuary within in the Olchorro Group Ranch, where he guided visitors and looked after six white rhinos. In 2003 John left the rhinos behind and joined Saruni. As one of the camps first employees, he helped with the construction of the lodge and once the doors of the camp were open to guests, he became a game tracker, helping to design an innovative set of game drives and game walks. After two years it became obvious that his depth of knowledge, his charisma and his infectious laughter made up all of the qualities of an excellent guide. As John wanted the opportunity to become a guide, Saruni decided to sponsor him through the Koyiaki Guiding School. The school is the first school of its kind to be set up to train young maasai to be qualified professional safari guides. John will take the K.P.S.G.A’s Bronze level qualification and will finish at the school in June 2006.
