Supporters can vote daily online until May 29
Gemma, a spirited and adventurous seven-year-old from Gretna, has a shot at winning US$20,000, learning from wildlife expert Jeff Corwin, and being featured in Ranger Rick magazine.
Her mom, Crystal Payment, said Gemma has always felt connected to the outdoors.
“She is looking to make the most of her life and just wants to be outside,” said Payment.
Gemma is competing in the Jr. Ranger Competition—an online contest for children ages 4 to 12 who love nature. Contestants advance through eight rounds by collecting public votes, vying for a grand prize package valued at US$40,000. The winner will receive a US$20,000 honorarium, virtual mentorship sessions with Corwin, and a photo shoot in an American city to appear in Ranger Rick.
Payment found out about the competition through Facebook and immediately signed Gemma up.
“This opportunity would truly help Gemma shine,” she said. “She’s a wonderful example for kids to get out and appreciate nature—her first instinct is to help.”
Gemma says she loves everything about nature. “From plants to pinecones, I’m always looking for something new to discover,” she said. “I love riding my bike and collecting things in my basket to bring to my mom.”
She’s also what her family calls a “nature nerd.” Payment said Gemma often boils her nature finds over a tealight candle, calling them science experiments. “She’s always brewing up her little potions,” said Payment. “She thrives when she’s working with nature.”
If Gemma wins, Payment plans to save a portion of the money for her daughter’s future. Gemma, however, has one dream in mind.
“I want to go see polar bears and other Arctic animals,” she said, referring to Churchill, Man.
To advance to the second round, Gemma needs to stay in the top 20 by May 29.
Anyone with a Facebook account can vote once daily at www.jr-ranger.org/2025/gemma-40db. Bonus votes can be cast through donations to the National Wildlife Federation via Gemma’s voting page. Donations are in U.S dollars and must be made through Gemma’s voting page to count as bonus votes.
