New director takes reins at CROW

Paul Hoyte, who officially took up the post about a month ago, after serving as interim director for two months, has worked at the NPO for nearly four years. He was previously the marketing manager at CROW and his work under the guidance of former director, Claire Hodgkinson, helped build up the CROW brand in the minds and hearts of locals.

“Having worked closely with Claire, I know what her action plan for CROW was and with her vision in mind I hope to keep building on the foundation she built,” said Paul.

CROW has been running for nearly 36 years and it larger than myself – it is an entity on its own. I hope to just add to it. We are all privileged to be part of it.

His passion for the centre is obvious as he speaks about the work they do to rescue, rehabilitate and release injured and orphaned wildlife. He said stepping into the role was daunting but he relished the support of a hands-on committee, dedicated staff and caring volunteers.

“It has been challenging so far, especially as this has been our busiest winter season in years, but I love a good challenge.”

Paul grew up in Richards Bay and spent much of his youth in Hluhluwe, as a voluntary ranger. He moved to Durban in 1999 and before he started working at CROW, he volunteered there and at the SPCA.

“CROW has been running for nearly 36 years and it larger than myself – it is an entity on its own. I hope to just add to it. We are all privileged to be part of it. I plan to continue with the education programme and hope to educate the public on wildlife and ways in which we can make changes in our daily life to help the environment.

With the extra hours spent ensuring the smooth running of one of the country’s oldest wildlife rehabilitation centres, Paul is grateful for the support from his wife, who believes in his mission. The two, who live next door to CROW, have had much to celebrate recently as they welcomed their first child into the world six months ago.