Johannesburg City Parks and Zoo (JCPZ) recently scooped six honours in the prestigious 2026 World Urban Parks (WUP) Awards Programme. The awards recognise the parks, projects, organisations and leaders shaping the future of urban parks and open spaces. This year, it attracted 55 nominations from five global regions, with regional juries recognising 28 winners. The awards were bestowed to Thanduxolo Mendrew, Managing Director JCPZ, on behalf of the employees of JCPZ, and five of Johannesburg's treasured green spaces.

Johannesburg scooped the following awards:

• Distinguished Individual: Thanduxolo Mendrew, Managing Director of JCPZ.
• Large Urban Parks: The Kloofendal Nature Reserve.
• Large Urban Parks: The Zoo and Zoo Lake Precinct.
• Park Revitalisation Project: The Wilds Nature Reserve.
• Neighbourhood Parks: Beaulieu Bird Sanctuary.
• Neighbourhood Parks: The Little Falls Nature Reserve and Resort.

 
Mendrew expressed his gratitude. “I am deeply honoured by this prestigious recognition. This award is shared with the many unsung heroes in green, who pitch up, show up and work tirelessly to reclaim the integrity of our green spaces.

“At a time when these spaces are undoubtedly under threat across the globe, their commitment reminds us that protecting nature is a collective responsibility," Mendrew added.

Cllr Thapelo Amad, the Member of Mayoral Committee for Community Development, commended JCPZ for the recognition on a global stage.

He acknowledged the exceptional contributions of volunteers including James Delaney, Dr Steven and Karien Spottiswoode, Fran Haslam, Heloise van Beerschoten-Roschlau, Kristin Kallesen, and a host of scholars, volunteers, partners, safety roleplayers and employees of JCPZ who have worked passionately to protect and preserve the city's green lungs.

“Their efforts demonstrate the enduring value of public participation and partnerships in caring for Johannesburg's natural heritage. A city's green lungs sustain more than nature, they sustain the dignity, health and hope of its people. These honours belong to everyone who cares for Johannesburg," Cllr Amad said.

Written by Staff Writer & JCPZ 
15/10/2026

 
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