WASHINGTON/SAN FRANCISCO — The International Rhino Foundation (IRF) and the Wildlife Conservation Network (WCN) have launched a new leadership program to strengthen rhino conservation efforts globally.
The Rising Wildlife Leaders: Careers initiative, beginning in May, will support six conservationists from Indonesia, Kenya, Namibia, and Zimbabwe with training, mentorship, and career development over the next three years.
With fewer than 28,000 rhinos remaining across Africa and Asia, the program aims to boost frontline expertise and leadership to safeguard the five remaining rhino species Javan, Sumatran, greater one-horned, black, and white.
Participants include Diana Marewangepo and Donald Misheck from Zimbabwe, both of whom are engaged in black and white rhino protection.
IRF and WCN say the program will build local capacity and reduce barriers to conservation careers, giving rhinos “a fighting chance” at survival.
