Leanne Riddoch (She/Her)

PhD Student, University of Kent
Lydia Kalekye

Conservation educator and trainer, Africa Climate Environment Foundation

Lydia is a seasoned conservation educator,majorly training learners in primary and secondary schools in Kenya. She is also a social mobilizer and trainer at community workshops, training on conservation of wildlife,wetlands,forests and savannahs. Lydia is very intrigued by wildlife and water related research, prompting her to carry out biodiversity research with Nature Kenya's herpetology,youth and ornithology working groups on a rolling basis. She is also a member of Nature Kenya under HARI and youth working groups.As an educator,she has interacted with at least 100 schools in the last two years during ecological visits to different forests,wetlands and national parks, teaching them about different issues on environmental conservation. I joined this platform to learn how to write compelling proposals for funding,network and face my fear of grant writing.
Gray Tembo

Researcher , NGIRC

I am an Economist and Researcher who is passionate about the conservation, biodiversity, nature based solutions and preservation of the ecosystem and the environment. I have experience as a reviewer and policy advocate.  I look forward to finding the like-minded people and learn from one another.
Thirza Loffeld

WildHub Co-founder, WildHub Conservation Community

My background is mainly in species conservation, education and capacity exchange. I researched mother-young interactions in gorillas and chimpanzees, in captivity and the wild. After that, I worked for three years in Indonesia, where I developed and implemented youth ambassador and community engagement programmes on local and regional scales. I co-founded WildHub, a community of nature conservation professionals, in 2020 and work as their Community Lead. I am furthermore on the Advisory Board of the Durrell Institute of Conservation and Ecology (DICE) at the University of Kent where I obtained my PhD on capacity development for conservation in 2022. 
Flavia Manieri

WildHub Community Advocates Coordinator|Interdisciplinary Researcher, Uppsala University

Since July 2025, I have been serving as the Community Advocates Coordinator at WildHub, where I coordinate initiatives to engage, support, and empower our community advocates in advancing WH’s mission. Beyond WildHub, I wear a few different hats. I work as a researcher and lecturer in Sweden, teaching courses on environmental law, political and historical ecology, and disaster management. I also mentor undergraduate and postgraduate students, collaborate with faculty members, and contribute to ongoing research projects. I’m passionate about giving back through volunteer work. I support a few conservation and animal welfare organisations with research and advocacy to help drive positive change. When I’m not working, you’ll find me hiking forest trails with my dog or enjoying a good cup of coffee.
Elly Omondi

Animal care Officer , CCF

I am highly skilled and dedicated professional with a strong background in wildlife care and a wide range of training in a Animal husbandry ,farming and Animal behaviour .i have a passion for working with wildlife and deep understanding of their unique needs and behaviours .with extensive knowledge and hands on experience ,I am committed to providing exceptional care and ensuring the well being of animals under my supervision.
Manon Verijdt

Founder / Entrepreneur, Ubuntu Magazine

I am the founder of Ubuntu Magazine. We share personal stories from the frontlines of conservation globally.  I have a background as a Applied Biologist and have been traveling the African continent since September '22 in a Land Rover Defender. Alongside watching wildlife and learning more about new countries and cultures, we (my partner and I) visit projects for Ubuntu Magazine. 
Suhail Bashir

Environmental Consultant, WildHub Community Advocate, ENS Environmnetal Consultancy Sharjah

Experienced Environmental Engineer/Consultant with a proven track record of leading successful environmental initiatives and delivering sustainable solutions. My expertise encompasses a diverse range of areas, including Baseline Studies, Environment Impact Assessments (EIA/IEE/ESIA), Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation, and Environmental Conservation & Sustainability. Currently, I am making a significant impact as an Environmental Engineer/Consultant at one of the leading Environmental Consultancy, specializing in preparing comprehensive environmental study reports for clients primarily from Hamriyah Free Zone Sharjah and Jebel Ali Free Zone Authority Dubai. These reports play a crucial role in promoting environmental compliance and sustainable practices within the industry.
Kalle Musalilwa Silwimba

Operations Manager, Tondwa Conservation Limited (Conserve global Earth)

With over 8 years of experience in shelter and infrastructure development across diverse contexts, I bring a multifaceted skill set to every project. My journey has spanned developmental, humanitarian, and emergency settings, where I’ve honed my technical, administrative, and interpersonal abilities. Key Roles and Achievements: Project Management: As a Project Engineer/Manager, I have successfully led the implementation of over 80 construction projects. These projects encompass a wide range of facilities, including training centers, houses, hostels, schools, police posts, markets, office spaces, and local courts. The combined value of these initiatives amounts to approximately K40 million (USD 2,000,000). My commitment to quality assurance and control measures ensures that projects are delivered to the highest standards. Community Engagement and Ownership: I am passionate about fostering community ownership of our projects. By involving residents and enhancing their skills, we create sustainable solutions that benefit everyone. Vibrant and proactive, I work tirelessly to ensure that our projects serve the community effectively. Environmental Responsibility: Committed to environmentally friendly solutions, I design infrastructure that minimizes ecological impact while remaining cost-effective. My proficiency extends beyond technical aspects—I excel in managing interpersonal relationships with contractors and administering contracts. Operations Management in Game Management Area: As an Operations Manager within a Game Management area, I oversee critical aspects of wildlife conservation and habitat management. My responsibilities include coordinating field operations, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, and optimizing resource utilization. UNV Civil Engineer (WASH/Shelter) in Refugee Settlement: For the past 4 years, I have served as a dedicated UN Volunteer (UNV) Civil Engineer in a refugee settlement. In this role, I am responsible for Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facilities and shelter infrastructure. I collaborate closely with international agencies, local authorities, and community leaders to improve living conditions for displaced populations. I am driven by a sense of purpose—to make a positive impact on communities, whether through sustainable infrastructure, environmental stewardship, or humanitarian efforts. As an adaptable professional, I embrace new technologies and challenges with enthusiasm.