Marta Villasán Barroso

Biodiversity Conservation Biologist , Ecoenergías del Guadiana / Fauna&Vida NGO / SEO BirdLife
Maria Helena Saari

Postdoctoral Research Fellow , University of Oulu

Yashika Nand

ReefCloud Outreach Scientist, Australian Institute of Marine Science

I am a passionate conservation practitioner, originally from Fiji.  I am a trained coral reef ecologist with practical knowledge and experience in applied fisheries, resources management, stakeholder engagement, training and outreach, social sciences, gender, disability and social inclusion and coral reef conservation. I have worked for over a decade in various projects and with stakeholders in the Pacific. More recently, I switched jobs to work more on focused coral reef research and have started to engage more with international stakeholders in Southeast Asia. The new job also allowed me to engage more closely with projects that focus on Indigenous communities and local people in Australia and the Pacific region.  
Felix Ndagijimana

Country Director, Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund Int'l

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.
Brighton Chilekeni

CEO/Founder , tech4wild, Lumezi Safaris & Tours, Chile Farms and Tina Villa Park

Brighton Chilekeni is a distinguished and relentless Zambian leader whose career embodies a truly pan-African commitment to preserving the continent's natural heritage while pioneering sustainable business ventures. A well-trained military professional, Brighton has forged a formidable reputation at the forefront of climate finance, community-driven conservation, technological innovation, and strategic tourism, with a proven operational footprint across multiple African nations. A Pan-African Journey Forged in Passion, Vision, and Discipline His distinguished career spans the iconic landscapes of Africa, having designed and executed critical conservation programs in Kenya, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia. This extensive field experience is underpinned by a background as a well-trained military professional, blending frontline pragmatism with academic rigor and strategic discipline. This unique journey has equipped him with an unparalleled continental perspective, which he now applies to a landmark climate initiative while leading multiple, visionary ventures. Core Identity: The CEO, Leader & Advisor · Entrepreneurial Leadership: Founder & CEO of Tech4Wildlife, a pioneering project dedicated to revolutionizing conservation law enforcement through the adoption and mastery of advanced technology. · Climate Finance Leadership: A key leader in one of the world's most ambitious carbon conservation projects—the first-ever REDD+ project in Zambia, the largest in Africa by hectarage, and the third-largest globally. · Tourism & Hospitality Visionary: Owner and Founder of Lumezi Safaris and Tours, a premier agency specializing in curated travel experiences, expert tourism advice, and strategic consulting for visitors seeking to explore the heart of Africa. · Agricultural Innovator: Founder of Chile Farms, an ambitious agricultural project with a clear vision to become a leading game ranch and a benchmark for sustainable farming. · Real Estate Developer: Founder of Tina Villa Park, a dynamic real estate venture offering high-quality flats and houses for rent and sale, creating modern, comfortable living spaces and fostering community development. A Dynamic and Comprehensive Skill Set Brighton’s expertise is a powerful fusion of strategic leadership, entrepreneurial vision, deep technical proficiency, and military-grade discipline. 🚀 Visionary Leadership & Innovation · Conservation Technology Entrepreneurship: As the CEO of Tech4Wildlife, he is actively driving innovation, identifying technological gaps, and creating solutions to combat poaching and enhance field efficiency. · Large-Scale Carbon Project Management: Proven ability to lead and manage complex operations for a record-setting, continent-leading REDD+ project, driving significant climate finance and community benefits. · Strategic Security & Law Enforcement: Leveraging his military training, he provides expert-level guidance on integrating technology and tactical protocols into law enforcement operations for maximum impact and personnel safety. · Pan-African Operational Expertise: Possesses a deep, practical understanding of conservation dynamics and stakeholder engagement across diverse ecosystems in Kenya, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Botswana, and Namibia. 🛠️ Advanced Conservation Technology & Data Intelligence · Technology Integration Specialist: Expert in the end-to-end deployment of conservation tech stacks, including SMART, EarthRanger, GIS, Cybertracker, and Garmin inReach. · Data-Driven Decision Making: Leverages spatial data and real-time analytics from platforms like EarthRanger and GIS to guide patrols, model threats, and allocate resources strategically. · Field Tool Proficiency: Mastery in configuring and using field tools like Cybertracker for data collection and Garmin inReach for team safety and coordination. 🌍 Strategic Field Operations, Tourism & Impact · Anti-Poaching Strategy: Designs and advises on technology-enhanced, intelligence-led law enforcement operations that are proactive and highly effective. · Human-Wildlife Conflict (HWC) Mitigation: Implements practical, community-driven solutions supported by technological monitoring. · Elite Tourism Development: Through Lumezi Safaris and Tours, Brighton leverages his extensive continental network and ecological knowledge to provide unparalleled travel experiences. He offers expert consulting and curates journeys that showcase Africa's breathtaking beauty, promote eco-tourism, and support local economies. 🏡 Building Futures: Real Estate & Agriculture · Tina Villa Park: More than just a real estate venture, Tina Villa Park represents a commitment to quality, security, and modern community living. It offers a portfolio of well-appointed flats and houses for rent and sale, providing exceptional value and lifestyle opportunities in a thriving residential environment. · Chile Farms: With a visionary outlook, Chile Farms is poised to become a significant player in agriculture and game management. This project reflects Brighton's long-term commitment to sustainable land use, food security, and diversifying Zambia's economic landscape. In Summary: The Architect of a Sustainable, Tech-Enabled Future Brighton Chilekeni is a comprehensive architect of the future for conservation, tourism, and sustainable business in Africa. He operates at a unique and powerful intersection: · As a CEO and Founder, he is building the tools (Tech4Wildlife), showcasing the beauty (Lumezi Safaris), developing communities (Tina Villa Park), and innovating in agriculture (Chile Farms). · As a Climate Leader, he is at the helm of a groundbreaking African carbon project, channeling international finance into vital conservation and community development. · As a Strategic Advisor, his military background and pan-African experience instills a culture of discipline, resilience, and strategic execution across all his endeavors. Brighton Chilekeni is not just participating in Africa's progress; he is actively leading its evolution, making him an invaluable visionary and a driving force for change across the continent.
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.
Abbas Haider

Wildlife Conservation Officer, World Wide Fund for Nature Pakistan

An experienced wildlife conservation officer with a successful record in managing conservation programs for endangered species and habitats. Skilled in research, wildlife monitoring, and enforcing protection laws. Committed to public awareness and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.
Karen Stone

Director, Vava'u Environmental Protection Association

Environment NGO based in Vava'u, Kingdom of Tonga focusing on biodiversity conservation, knowledge exchange and developing and supporting community management programs.
Maria Victoria Lassaga

Project Manager, Natura International

I´m PM4R Master certificated for BID and I work as a Project Manager at Natura International, an NGO dedicated to the creation of protected areas. I am in my last year of Biology at the National University of Cordoba and I am doing my final thesis on mammals in a reserve in my province. During my career I have done volunteer work in La Coronilla, Uruguay with sea turtles and I am currently doing a research internship in the project "Defaunacion de la mastofauna en la porción Sur del Gran Chaco Americano". I would like to specialize in conservation and ecology
Lu Ventura

Biologist, Veterinary, Ecotourism guide and Researcher, BIOVENTURA

Iam Lourdes Alessandra Ventura Seabra, biologist and veterinary in my NGO Bioventura in Brazil and study conservation jaguars, pumas and other animals in the Atlantic Forest (Juréia-Itatins Ecological Station - 24º18'-24º32'S e 47º00'-47º30'W). Instagram: @luventurabiologa @bioventura_ecoturismo_biologia @felinosdajureiaitatins
Jose Antonio Diaz Luque

CEO, Endangered Conservation

I'm a wildlife conservationist, with 14 years of hands-on experience in the field management and coordination of international conservation and research programs with endangered wildlife. My work focuses heavily on parrots and macaws, participating in or leading 13 programs in 8 countries. My strong interest is in biodiversity conservation based on field research and focus on wildlife species highly threatened by extinction.
Rahma Aleskafi

Environmental Consultant , Ayesa

My love to marine conservation comes from a life-changing experience scuba diving and bachelor's degree in biology. For my undergraduate project I did a study on bird ecology in Bahrain's mangroves, this experience allowed me to practice my research skills and understand the crucial role of birds in mangroves ecosystems. I have two years of experience as a marine environmental consultant where I conduct environmental impact assessment projects, I want to further study marine birds ecology and bridge the gap between bird behavior and sustainable fishing practices, with the goal of translating scientific knowledge into actionable data that supports the well-being of marine ecosystems and coastal communities.
Lize Gibson-Hall

Information Officer, Bumblebee Conservation Trust

I am a marine biology graduate with an MSc in conservation from Plymouth Uni. I use to be the assistant community manager of WildHub and. have a passion for science communication and bringing people together. 🦇 In my spare time I have a blog as well as a Redbubble shop where I sell my artwork. Check it out under my website link :) 🦇 Other interests include the use of technology (specifically cameras) to study animals as well as animal husbandry and advocacy. 
Joana Patrícia Areias Guerreiro

Science Tutor, Academia da Alegria

Hello, I'm Joana Guerreiro. As a lover of wildlife I focused my studies in Biology (Bachelor) and later in Conservation Biology (Master). I analysed zooplankton samples, followed up bumble bee hives, tracked down badgers to be vaccinated, evaluated an Eurasian otter distribution model, helped controlling invasive species and contributed for some wildlife monitoring projects. While studying, I had the opportunity to travel and discover how immense is biodiversity, how little I know about it and how much I want to protect it. Different places introduced me to different ways to interact with my surroundings. Also, I found my love for communication. Presently I'm working has a science tutor for a study centre. I'm looking for a job in conservation field so that while I keep researching what inspires me, I can share it with others and give my contribute to both science and society. I'm here to learn, share and get inspired.
Giovanni Ottaviano

PostDoc Researcher, University of Molise

Ph.D. in Biosciences and Territory - territorial curriculum (ICAR/20 - Urban planning technique) at the University of Molise, with a thesis about the relationship between protection of environmental qualities and territorial socio-economic development. Former post-graduate fellow on the topics “Interactive environmental planning of the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park” and “Innovative ways of developing the planning process of the Gran Sasso and Monti della Laga National Park”. Many years of experience in the planning and regulation of protected natural areas and in the Strategic Environmental Assessment procedure (also in integration with the Incidence Assessment and Management Plans of the Natura 2000 Network’s areas), acquired as part of the activities of the LISP laboratory (University of Molise). Collaboration, in the same laboratory, in the drafting of territorial cooperation projects (Interreg ADRION and IPA CBC Italy-Albania-Montenegro) and international mobility projects (Erasmus+). Continuous collaboration in the teaching activities of the courses of Territorial Tourism Planning (degree course in Tourism Sciences), Urban Planning Technique (degree course in Civil Engineering) and Territorial Planning (Master’s degree course in Civil Engineering) and in the seminars and project work activities of the II level professional master in Planning and promotion of the cultural landscape at the University of Molise. Many year of collaboration in the production and post-production of professional photo and video services in the commercial, industrial and events markets at Blitz foto | video (San Salvo) and FotoGrafica srl (Lanciano). Collaboration experience in architectural and landscape design (at Fagnoni & Associati Architetti, Florence) and in R&D in the construction and commercial field (at Gruppo D’Angelo & Antenucci, San Salvo).