WCP Zambia
Conservation Careers Fair
Since its inception in 2018, Wildlife Crime Prevention (WCP) has been at the forefront of facilitating the Zambian Conservation Careers Fair (CCF), an initiative designed to inspire and connect young Zambians with rewarding careers in the conservation sector.
Since its inception, Wildlife Crime Prevention (WCP) has been at the forefront of facilitating the Zambian Conservation Careers Fair (CCF), an initiative designed to inspire and connect young Zambians with rewarding careers in the conservation sector. The fair serves as a platform where various stakeholders from the conservation industry come together to showcase the diverse opportunities available in this growing field, demonstrating to educated young people that conservation is not only a noble cause but also a viable and fulfilling career path.
The primary goal of CCF is to foster an environment that encourages greater participation by young Zambians, who are the future stewards of the country’s rich natural heritage. By engaging students, recent graduates, and jobseekers, the fair aims to inspire the next generation of conservation professionals and ensure that Zambia’s conservation efforts are sustained by a well-trained, passionate workforce. The event plays a pivotal role in promoting Zambian involvement in the conservation industry, which is essential for the country’s long-term environmental health and the sustainable development of its economy.
Each year, over 50 conservation organisations working in Zambia attend the fair, offering valuable insights into the industry and providing information about potential employment opportunities. These organisations represent a wide range of stakeholders, including NGOs, government agencies, research institutions, and private sector partners, all working to protect Zambia’s natural resources. The fair attracts more than 1,000 jobseekers, including undergraduate and graduate students, as well as individuals already in the workforce who are seeking to transition into the conservation sector.
One of the key components of the fair is the motivational talks delivered by conservationists and industry influencers. These talks provide participants with a deeper understanding of the sector, offering first-hand accounts of working in conservation and the positive impact that dedicated professionals can have on Zambia’s biodiversity. The speakers share their personal journeys, challenges, and successes, encouraging attendees to pursue careers that contribute to the protection of Zambia’s unique wildlife and ecosystems.
In addition to motivational talks, the fair also offers practical guidance through employment agencies that provide essential career development services. These agencies offer expert advice on job applications, CV writing, interview techniques, and other critical skills needed to succeed in the competitive conservation job market. By providing participants with the tools and knowledge to position themselves effectively for roles in the conservation sector, the fair helps bridge the gap between education and employment, ensuring that young Zambians are well-equipped to enter and thrive in this growing industry.
The Zambian Conservation Careers Fair has become an important event for both jobseekers and employers in the conservation sector. It not only provides young Zambians with the opportunity to explore diverse career paths but also strengthens the overall conservation community in Zambia by fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing among organisations. By continuing to grow and evolve, the fair plays a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of conservation leaders, ensuring that Zambia’s natural resources are protected for generations to come.