Sikela Namangolwa (He/Him)

Environmental Education Officer, Wildlife & Environmental Conservation Society of Zambia
Brighton Chilekeni

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

Brighton Chilekeni: A Distinguished and Relentless African (Zambian) Leader Brighton Chilekeni’s career embodies a truly pan-African commitment to preserving Africa’s natural heritage while pioneering sustainable business ventures. A well-trained military professional, he 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—which includes being recognized as the youngest conservation professional to receive acclaim in Kenya—has equipped him with an unparalleled continental perspective. He now applies this insight 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. · Wildlife Law Enforcement & Security Advisor: A trusted expert advisor in wildlife law enforcement, providing strategic guidance on anti-poaching operations, counter-trafficking initiatives, and the integration of technology into field security protocols. · Tourism & Hospitality Visionary: Owner and Founder of Lumezi Safaris and Tours, a premier agency led by Brighton himself as an expert tour guide. It specializes in curated travel experiences, expert tourism advice, and strategic consulting for visitors seeking to explore the heart of Africa. · Agricultural & Game Ranching 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 and wildlife management. · 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 & Strategic Advisory · Conservation Technology Entrepreneurship: As the CEO of Tech4Wildlife, he actively drives innovation, identifies technological gaps, and creates 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 & Field Mastery · 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. · Conservation Fire Management Expert: Skilled in the strategic use and control of fire as a ecological management tool to maintain healthy ecosystems, prevent destructive wildfires, and enhance habitat for wildlife. 🌍 Strategic Field Operations, Tourism & Impact · Anti-Poaching & Wildlife Trafficking Prevention: Designs and advises on technology-enhanced, intelligence-led law enforcement operations that are proactive and highly effective, with specialized expertise in disrupting wildlife trafficking networks. · Human-Wildlife Conflict (HWC) Mitigation: Implements practical, community-driven solutions supported by technological monitoring. · Elite Tourism & Guided Experiences: Through Lumezi Safaris and Tours, Brighton leverages his extensive continental network and profound ecological knowledge as an expert guide 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. · Game Ranching Expertise: Applies deep knowledge of sustainable wildlife management and breeding practices at Chile Farms, contributing to conservation, economic diversification, and ecological balance. 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 and game management (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 and Expert, his military background, early recognition, and pan-African experience instills a culture of discipline, resilience, and strategic execution. His specialized command in wildlife law enforcement, anti-trafficking, guided tourism, game ranching, and fire management makes him a uniquely versatile asset. 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.
Queen Elizabeth Hare

Alternative livelihood and environmental education cordinator, Bahari Hai

I have quenchless enthusiasm towards environmental education  and community conservation. I influence community members around the buffer zone of resources like Watamu Marine Protected Areas who are dependent to these resources. I like engaging them through conversation in sustainable livelihoods. I am very curious and I like asking the question WHY when having conversations. I like connecting with people, nature and  getting informed. I believe information is power. I like conservation  storytelling and I have a lot of stories.   I  have witnessed the power of conversations and coaching towards change of attitude to natural resources.  I have empowered over 1000 community members including young kids, youths fishermen and women around Watamu Marine Protected Areas.
Miguel Sho

Environmental Education Officer, Belize Audubon Society

Lisa Chitura

Environmental Education and Awareness Programs Officer , Wildlife Conservation Action Trust

Vimbainashe Eunick

Conservationist, Conservation education practitioner , WildEdZim Consultancy

My name is VImbainashe Eunick Chitauro, a conservationist from Zimbabwe specializing in Conservation education. From a young age, I have been passionate about working with wildlife, and as I progressed in my career, I have come to understand the crucial link between wildlife and communities. My goal is to educate and equip the next generation with the knowledge and skills to become future custodians of biodiversity, carrying forward the important work already being done. With over 4 years of experience in the conservation field, I have had the privilege of educating over 5000 children and community members on conservation matters. I am eager to connect with conservationists from around the world to make a significant impact together. I believe that through collaboration, we can make a difference in preserving our planet's wildlife and natural resources.
Cleo Grieve

Postgraduate Student , University of Edinburgh

Cleo has an M.Sc. in Applied Animal Behaviour & Animal Welfare from the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies (University of Edinburgh) and a B.Sc. in Animal Biology from Stirling University (UK). She has extensive experience in assisting and managing complex research projects for multiple research institutes and private laboratories. She has built up a strong technical background in the South African Bushveld deciphering wild animal behaviour and bio-acoustics, in cancer research and behind an electron microscope looking for a link between positive animal welfare practices and the abundance of microglia (the brain’s primary innate immune cells).
Caroline Njoki

Partnerships & Fundraising Manager, Born Free Foundation

Thato Mashigo

Environmental education officer intern, National Zoological Garden

I not so recently obtained my Master’s in Wildlife Management Engineering and have entered the workforce in an entry level position. Currently working as an environmental education intern for the only national zoological garden in South Africa. I am looking for new opportunities to gain skills and knowledge that will enable me to be successful and an asset in whichever organisation or company (within wildlife conservation) that I collaborate with or join. I look forward to gaining and building great partnerships in this community. 
Sienna Weinstein

Writer (Volunteer), New England Primate Conservancy

I have a lifelong fascination and love for all things zoological which began at an early age, as I grew up on a "diet" of nature and wildlife documentaries from Animal Planet, National Geographic, The Discovery Channel, and more. My most recent work experience has mostly been within laboratory animal husbandry. My true passion, however, has been within the realm of wildlife conservation, and after a series of short-lived jobs within laboratory work, I decided to close that door, and finally pursue my "true calling". Ideally, I am looking for a full-time job which may utilize writing or photography to promote the conservation of wildlife worldwide. The aspects of wildlife conservation I am most passionate about are the protection of biodiversity, and endangered/threatened species, education and public outreach, and human-wildlife conflict. I have a B.S. degree in Zoology, and an M.S. in Environmental Studies (concentration: Conservation Biology). Over the course of my studies, I have gained experience in performing and analyzing field research.  Among the skills I have developed are Microsoft Office and the programming language R. I also participated in a study abroad in southern Africa, taking part in field work involving species abundance and diversity. As a requirement of my M.S. degree, I completed a thesis in which I explored the impact of realistic coyote models and samples of coyote urine on deer behavior as a means to decrease their browsing in residential areas.  Currently, I am a volunteer Writer for the New England Primate Conservancy. All-in-all, I am leveraging experience in technical/scientific/creative writing, project management, data collection, and wildlife photography. I am extremely responsible, organized, creative, and a hard-working individual who loves learning new skills. My photography has also been credited by organizations such as The Nature Conservancy, the Smithsonian's National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, and Zoo New England. If you have a strong desire to promote biodiversity, and the survival of threatened and endangered species, please feel free to connect with me here and on LinkedIn. I'm ALWAYS looking to expand my network.
Christelle

Grants Officer, Frankfurt Zoological Society - Zambia

Thawanda Masiye

Project and Environmental Manager, Fluid Mech Engineering Limited

As someone deeply passionate about the environment and conservation, I have dedicated my career to ecology, wildlife management, and environmentalism. I understand the challenges we face, and I bring experience in policy and advocacy, community engagement, monitoring and evaluation, project management, and wildlife conservation. Together, we can work towards a better future for our planet and its incredible biodiversity.
Handsen Mseteka

Projects Manager , Game Rangers International

I hold a Master of Arts Degree in Development Studies, with Major in Agrarian, Food and Environmental Studies (Specialisation - Environment and Sustainable Development) from International Institute of Social Studies (ISS) of Erasmus University Rotterdam. I am a highly skilled Natural Resources Conservationist, Agricultural and International/Rural Development expert with 15years experience in developing, implementing and monitoring forestry and wildlife conservation programs; linking agribusiness to conservation, community empowerment and climate change mitigation and adaptation in Zambia. I have coordinated various programs with international donors including the World Food Program of the United Nations, UNDP, the World Bank, WWF and USAID among others, in Agriculture, climate change adaptation and mitigation and Natural Resources management. Excellent skills in stakeholder engagement and networking; coordinated projects and programs with the Zambian Government, local and international donors and other support stakeholders. Good skills in financial resource mobilization through proposal writing.
Grace Mtonga

Community Engagement Officer, Musekese Conservation

Chikuni Banda

GIS Coordinator, North Luangwa Conservation Program

Marilet Louw

Conservation Manager, BioCarbon Partners

An avid conservationist, I joined the BCP team as Conservation Manager in June 2021. With a deep love and passion for wildlife, conservation, and all things outdoors, I always knew I was destined to join the conservation field. Graduated from Tshwane University of Technology in South Africa where after studying Game Ranch Management, before going on to work in the private sector. I've spent the last few years focusing on improving the local South African stock of sable, roan, rhino, buffalo, wild dog, and the restocking of Southern African sable and wild dog populations. Apart from being a conservationist, I'm an enthusiastic equestrian.
David Kabambo Kabambo

Founder & Executive Director , Peace for conservation

David Kabambo is the founder and Executive Director of Peace for Conservation (PFC ) and holds a B. A. degree in Social Work, a Postgraduate Diploma in Wildlife Management, and is presently working towards a Master’s degree in Natural Resource Management and Assessment.  David has a particular skill-set in supporting the transformation of people’s understanding and viewpoints regarding the benefits of conservation. He has had real impacts at the grassroots level, working with bush meat poachers, for alternative livelihoods such as wildlife conservation educators. He has developed and implemented a highly successful employment schemes whereby former poachers a recruited as community conservation educator, they visit at schools and local communities to advocate wildlife conservation, the wider benefits to Tanzania’s national income (for example eco-tourism) and provide real-life testimonials regarding the negative impacts of the bush-meat trade. Since 2016, David has donated 47 tricycles to disabled person greatly increasing their comfort and ability to lead normal lives. He has set himself a goal of donating 100 tricycles by 2025. He is keen that local disabled person do not miss out on experiencing local wildlife, such as the magical ‘Big Five’  and has arranged dedicated tours to the Serengeti. National park .He also feels that these persons living close to protected areas in the Serengeti ecosystem have a vital and active role as ambassadors for wildlife conservation.
Jack Cole

Project and Fundraising Coordinator, Restore Our Planet

Ussi Abuu Mnamengi

Key Conservation Catalyst, WildHub Conservation Community

Greetings, I'm Ussi Abuu, a prominent Conservation Catalyst within the WildHub community, stationed in the beautiful landscapes of Zanzibar, Tanzania. I proudly serve as the INDUSTRY 5.0 Ambassador in Tanzania, advocating for sustainable industrial practices, and I also hold the role of Tanzania Coordinator at the Global Sustainable Future Progress through Partnership network. My journey towards environmental and social progress has been rich and diverse. I previously contributed to the Tanzania Development Trust as a mapper, utilizing geographical data to support development initiatives. Additionally, my commitment to global betterment led me to join the United Nations Volunteers program in 2016, where I've continued to make a meaningful impact. Together, we can explore the vast realm of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and how they intertwine with my experiences and endeavors. Join me on this journey towards a more sustainable and equitable world.
Lisa Wheeler

Grants and Networks Officer, Whitley Fund for Nature

I lead on the Whitley Fund for Nature's Network Development programme, supporting and creating connections among the 200-strong global network to foster knowledge exchange and collaboration, and strengthen capacity. Previous to this role, I worked for Galapagos Conservation Trust for over seven years across project management and operations/finance. I hold an MSc in Conservation Science from Imperial College London. I am passionate about habitat restoration, the conservation of endemic species and inspiring the next generation of conservation leaders.