Nepatao Pesi

Student, Pardamat Conservation Area
Giulia R

Veterinarian, Independent Consultant

Tanya M.

Program Support Officer, NQ Dry Tropics

Matthew Creasey

Course Development Manager, WildTeam

I work for WildTeam UK, helping to deliver training workshops, write conservation best practice manuals and share them as widely as possible. Previously a Writing Fellow working with various conservation organisations across India. Background in research, particularly behavioural ecology. Bird nerd.
Anna Mahulu

Founder and CEO, Sustainable Futures Tanzania (SFT)

Yihew Biru Woldegiorgis

Researcher, Gullele Botanic Garden

I am Yihew Biru a researcher working as wildlife ecologist at Gullele Botanic Garden Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. I do have a research and teaching experience in higher education systems and research institutions in Ethiopia. My research background is on feeding ecology and resource use overlap among different species of large mammals, human-wildlife conflict mitigations, biodiversity conservation challenges across Ethiopia and ethnozoology related topics. I am eager to acquire new concept and experiences from the team throughout the GWWC course and after.
Sangay Dorji

N/A, Tarayana Foundation

I am Sangay Dorji from Bhutan. I am a Conservation Biologist. 
Sikela Namangolwa

Environmental Education Officer, Wildlife & Environmental Conservation Society of Zambia

He is passionate in biodiversity and sustainable development, showcasing proficiencies in policy analysis, science-guided advocacy, and the advancement of community enterprises and infrastructure rooted in climate change adaptation and ecosystem approach.
Levi Chabuka

Climate Activist, Resilient-Gen

I am a Malawian,  a graduate from the University of Malawi, a passionate young climate activist, a founder and executive director of  a nascent environmental leadership organization, Resilient-Gen. I have  profound experience in community mobilization, community engagement not to mention resource mobilization. I love all things green!!
MuKasa Emmanuel

Executive Director , Herp Fauna Foundation

Emmanuel SAWADOGO

Burkina Faso W National Manager 2016-2022, Ministry of Environnement

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.
Hayley Rocco

Children's Book Author, Hayley Rocco Books

I'm a children's book author with a focus on creating books that ignite passion and curiosity for wildlife and wild places in young readers. "If we care about animals, we'll want to protect them." I'm looking to connect with professionals who are studying and/or are actively helping in advancing wildlife conservation efforts in general. I am also a beginning nature photographer with a passion for capturing the unique personalities of each animal I see. (That's the goal, anyhow!) I've had a lifelong passion for animals and want to learn all I can and share what I can with young readers, hopefully inspiring the next wave of conservationists, naturalists, scientists, etc.!
Liane Fulford

Training Specialist, WildTeam

I'm Liane, and I am a WildLearning Specialist at WildTeam! I'm looking forward to getting to know you all! For the last few years, I've been working in Seychelles, focusing on island and marine conservation efforts, particularly coral restoration and turtle nesting monitoring. If you ask me questions about coral, be prepared for me to get very nerdy about it! Prior to that, I was managing a project in Northern Thailand, where I worked closely with a local community to set up ethical elephant experiences in their village. In my free time, I love running and hiking, and being anywhere in nature. I have also learnt to freedive in the last few years and enjoy doing that when possible. I'm really interested in talking to different people and learning from them and their unique experiences.
Mary Malasa

Programme Manager , BirdWatch Zambia

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.
Akovognon Jérôme DOHOU

Biodiversity and climate change consultant, NA

Dheeraj Jayant

Executive Director, Associação de conservação da biodiversidade - Biflores

I'm currently serving as the director of biodiversity conservation association Biflores in the smallest inhabited island of the Cape Verdean archipelago - Brava. Our association works on the intersection of development and conservation of biodiversity, aiming to ensure a sustainable future for humans and non-humans on Brava.
Rezoana Arefine

Snake expert, Kundali Foundation

I am Arefine. I am an anchor & reciter. In between my studies in zoology, I am involved in extra curricular activities. I focus on field studies since my undergraduate studies. Field study alone and observing became my addiction. Photography was also added to this addiction. Although watching nature, observing animals is my passion, the thought of working on a specific subject did not come to my mind. After that, I started working at the marginal level with snakebite patients during the Corona period. Then I chose calligraphy as a means of awareness to reach people quickly. Although I did not give priority to online then, I later built my organization called Kundali Foundation. Under the banner of this organization, i started the work of conveying the message of awareness to people called 'Be Aware Of Snake'.   I was able to deliver my message to 495 upazilas of Bangladesh. The war is still going on because the fear of snakes has not died down among people.
Victoria Mkessa

Programs Coordinator, Grumeti Fund Trust

Holly Appleby

Species Recovery Project Assistant, Game & Wildlife Conservation Trust

I am an early career researcher currently working on the recovery of black grouse populations in northern England. From a young age, I have been obsessed with the natural world and have dedicated my life, so far,  to working for wildlife.  I have a BSc in Natural Sciences and an MRes in Biology (focussing on nature-based tourism across Africa and the UK). My main interests are: African mega-fauna, species recovery and landscape restoration, human-wildlife co-existence, camera-trapping, research and education.  I joined the WildHub community to network with like-minded individuals and to help pursue my career as well as those around me. Don't hesitate to get in touch!