WildlifeDirect announces that its CEO, Dr. Paula Kahumbu, has been awarded the prestigious 2024 Wings WorldQuest Women of Discovery Award. This recognition is awarded to women leaders who are making significant contributions to the fields of science, exploration, and conservation globally. The announcement was made on May 3rd 2024.
Dr Kahumbu, a renowned conservationist and an influential advocate for wildlife, is celebrated for her efforts in elephant conservation and leadership in various national campaigns against wildlife crimes in Kenya. Under her stewardship, WildlifeDirect has achieved remarkable success in raising awareness and changing attitudes towards wildlife conservation in Africa.
Her notable achievements include spearheading the “Hands Off Our Elephants” campaign,
which has influenced legislative changes to enhance wildlife protection. Dr. Kahumbu’s work
has also extended beyond borders through her roles as a National Geographic Explorer and a
member of the Board of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) International, bringing global attention to conservation issues.
The Wings WorldQuest Award explicitly acknowledges the groundbreaking work of women
in male-dominated fields and provides recipients with unrestricted funding to support their
research and initiatives.
Dr Kahumbu’s recognition is a testament to her impact on wildlife conservation and her role as a global ambassador for environmental issues.
“This award is not only a recognition of my efforts but is a tribute to the tireless work of the
entire WildlifeDirect team and the collective action of communities in Kenya and beyond,”
said Dr Kahumbu. “It is an encouragement that our fight to protect our planet’s precious wildlife
is valued and vital.”
WildlifeDirect continues to lead innovative conservation strategies that engage local
communities and global partners. Through education, legal reforms, and on-the-ground actions,
Dr. Kahumbu and WildlifeDirect are setting standards in conservation efforts
worldwide.