Ucayali Ranger Recognized by National Geographic for Audiovisual Contest Success

Alberth Sánchez, a 28-year-old indigenous ranger from the El Sira Communal Reserve in Peru's Ucayali region, has earned recognition from National Geographic Camping Perú (NGCP). Sánchez, who belongs to the Shipibo-Konibo people and holds a degree in agroforestry, was honored for his exceptional contributions to the first National Audiovisual Formats Contest 2025. This national competition saw approximately 3,000 submissions, with only nine winners selected.

Sánchez, a beneficiary of the Beca 18 scholarship program, was acknowledged for his skill in creating audiovisual content that highlights Peru's natural attractions and encourages sustainable tourism practices. His work emphasizes living in harmony with nature, reflecting his deep connection to the environment he protects. He is the sole Peruvian ranger to receive this distinction from NGCP.

“

He represents what we were looking for: Peruvians who live nature, know it, and promote it from their own territories.

Growing up in the El Sira Reserve, Sánchez was inspired by the rangers he observed in his community. He combined his passion for photography with his role as a forest protector, using social media to share the Amazon's biodiversity. His daily life involves patrols, managing camera traps, and monitoring species like the spectacled bear and the Sira paujil, an endemic bird.

“

Receiving this recognition has been a motivation to continue doing what I love most: showing the natural and cultural richness of my region. It is a sign to continue sharing stories about our communities and our fauna.

Marina Gonzalo, an Explorer with National Geographic Camping Perú and organizer of the contest, praised Sánchez, stating, "He represents what we were looking for: Peruvians who live nature, know it, and promote it from their own territories." Sánchez expressed his gratitude, stating the recognition motivates him to continue showcasing the natural and cultural richness of his region and sharing stories from indigenous communities and the Amazon.

Looking ahead, Sánchez aims to conduct research on Andean bear conservation and continue documenting stories from indigenous communities in the Amazon. He aspires to join the international community of explorers while remaining dedicated to his work as a ranger.

“

My dream is to keep growing and, one day, be part of the international community of explorers, but always with the heart of a ranger.