45 years of professional conservation, wildlife management, CBNRM and sustainable development experience across Africa and particularly Southern Africa - ranging from field work through to executive management experience and leadership. 

Mary is  passionate about experiencing and working in wild spaces. She is a practicing researcher, experienced in project management with her current career being species-focused. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Management from the Copperbelt University and is currently pursuing a Master's in Environmental and Natural Management at the University of Zambia. In 2018, Mary embarked on a rewarding journey as an ecologist intern with BirdWatch Zambia. Since joining the organization, She has participated in species and biodiversity surveys, monitored habitats, engaged with young learners, and established nature clubs in schools among various other activities. Currently, Mary is honored to serve as a Species Conservation Officer and lead the Vulture Conservation Program at BirdWatch Zambia. Within this role, Mary oversees a multitude of responsibilities, including coordinating research efforts, facilitating capacity building initiatives, and managing partner relations. Additionally, she skillfully blends project activities with community engagement and outreach to ensure that local communities become parts of the conservation solutions we strive for. Mary's expertise also extends to wildlife poisoning response, both in practice and as a trainer. She possess a keen interest in areas such as tourism, law enforcement, and wildlife crime prevention.

I am deeply passionate about wildlife conservation and committed to preserving our planet's rich biodiversity for future generations. With a public policy and education background, I bring a unique perspective, recognizing the intersection between environmental stewardship and socio-economic factors. My journey in wildlife conservation is driven by a desire to bridge the gap between conservation efforts and community development, fostering sustainable solutions that benefit both people and wildlife.

Passionate Conservation Practitioner dedicated to fostering coexistence between people and wildlife, specially with gentle big herbivores like manatees and tapirs. . With extensive experience in leading conservation programs, conducting fieldwork, and engaging rural communities, I bridge the gap between conservation and human well-being. Firmly believing in the symbiotic relationship between people and nature, I excel in grant writing, building partnerships, and fundraising. Committed to preserving biodiversity while enhancing the quality of life for both people and wildlife, I drive lasting impact through collaborative action and innovative solutions. I decided to join wild hub in other to connect with other conservationist around the world to enhance collaboration and idea exchange. 

I am a  Postdoctoral researcher with the Arctic Genomics Project, focusing on the use of genomic tools to support wildlife conservation, food security, and Indigenous-led research in the Arctic and Sub-Arctic regions. My work lies at the intersection of conservation biology, climate change, and community-based approaches, with a strong emphasis on ethical and respectful collaboration with Indigenous Peoples.

I am a multihyphenate working across environmental conservation and equity spaces, serving clients with program and project design and assessment, policy advocacy, strategy, communications, and thought partnership. My firm primarily serves nonprofit and government entities, with select partnerships with mission-based for-profit companies. I bring my expertise in law, anthropology, policy, communications, and wellness to the work advancing equitable conservation.  I am also a passionate and avid SCUBA diver, coral restoration volunteer, and fundraiser aiming to advance equity in ocean conservation through local, hands-on, in-the-water work. I serve on the Advisory Board for 10% For the Ocean and volunteer regularly with the Cozumel Coral Reef Restoration Program. For more information, please visit www.silleckconsultingservices.com.