Environmental Journalist, Science Communicator
D.M. is an award-winning journalist dedicated to telling untold stories about biodiversity, protected areas, and conservation science across Latin America. From national parks in Brazil to evolutionary research in the Galápagos, her work sheds light on ecological resilience and public engagement—earning honors such as the AAAS Kavli Science Journalism Award.

Rainforest Defender, Indigenous Conservationist
Founder of CAN Borneo, L.K. has led frontline efforts to rescue wildlife, restore rainforests, and mobilize indigenous communities in Indonesia. For over a decade, his work bridges local wisdom and environmental action to protect Borneo’s fragile ecosystems.

China–Africa Policy Expert, IR Scholar
S.N.M. is a Nairobi-based researcher focused on China–Africa relations, sustainable development, and South–South cooperation. He has contributed to regional policy dialogues and trained the next generation of changemakers as a lecturer in international relations. His work promotes equitable, people-centered development through global partnerships and informed diplomacy.

Development Practitioner, Gender & Youth Advocate
T.M.K. brings 20+ years of experience working with UN agencies and NGOs across Africa, Asia, and the U.S. She has led empowerment programs for women, youth, and marginalized communities, and currently co-directs WYCDO Kenya. Her work connects grassroots voices with global agendas, advancing education, health, and sustainable livelihoods through community-led development.

UN Harmony with Nature Scientist, Amazon Explorer
R.V.E. leads Amazon Research Internacional, advancing the protection of fragile rainforest ecosystems through science, storytelling, and indigenous collaboration. Her pioneering research on microbes, stingless bees, and medicinal biodiversity has informed national policy and global education. She works across Peru and the UK, blending biochemistry and cultural knowledge to promote sustainability.

National Geographic Explorer, Primate Conservationist
With over a decade of field experience, O.D. has led wildlife conservation initiatives across Cameroon, Nigeria, and Guinea—protecting endangered chimpanzees and promoting community-based biodiversity efforts. As a National Geographic Explorer and member of the IUCN’s specialist groups, his work bridges science, policy, and storytelling to defend Africa’s most threatened ecosystems.

Freshwater Ecologist, IUCN Specialist
Founder of FGO and PhD candidate at the University of Florida, J.M. leads conservation research on African river ecosystems. He has published widely and collaborates with global institutions to protect freshwater biodiversity and advance sustainable development in East Africa.

Freshwater Ecologist, IUCN Specialist
Founder of FGO and PhD candidate at the University of Florida, J.M. leads conservation research on African river ecosystems. He has published widely and collaborates with global institutions to protect freshwater biodiversity and advance sustainable development in East Africa.