WCP Zambia
Women For Conservation
A career in conservation presents unique challenges for women. Long deployments in remote locations, societal expectations, and cultural norms can make it difficult for women to balance professional aspirations with traditional roles.
A career in conservation presents unique challenges for women. Long deployments in remote locations, societal expectations, and cultural norms can make it difficult for women to balance professional aspirations with traditional roles. Historically, the conservation sector has been male-dominated, with fewer opportunities and leadership roles available for women. However, fostering a more inclusive approach to conservation is essential—not only for gender equality but also for unlocking the full potential of a diverse workforce that can drive impactful and sustainable conservation efforts.
Wildlife Crime Prevention (WCP) Zambia’s Women for Conservation (W4C) Initiative directly addresses these challenges by creating a supportive network for Zambian women in conservation. The initiative provides a platform for women to connect, share experiences, access mentorship, and build the skills they need to succeed in their careers. Today, over 500 women benefit from this network, helping to shape a future where women are active participants and leaders in conservation.
Building a Strong Professional Network
A key component of the Women for Conservation initiative is fostering connections and community-building among women in conservation. Through quarterly networking events, the initiative provides a physical and virtual space for women to meet, share insights, and learn from each other. These gatherings help break down isolation, which is often a significant challenge for women working in remote field sites. By promoting knowledge-sharing and collaboration, W4C is ensuring that women feel supported in their professional journeys and are empowered to take on leadership roles.
Mentorship: Guiding the Next Generation of Women in Conservation
To further support career development, W4C launched a virtual mentorship programme in 2020, pairing aspiring Zambian conservationists with experienced local and international mentors. This initiative provides critical guidance on career progression, technical skills, and personal development. Over time, the programme has evolved into structured coaching sessions, ensuring that women receive consistent and meaningful professional development support. A dedicated mentorship handbook guides the process, helping mentors and mentees navigate their partnerships effectively.
This mentorship programme has proven to be a powerful tool for breaking barriers and building confidence, giving young women access to role models and professional networks that can help them navigate their careers in conservation.
Women’s Leadership and Empowerment Training
W4C recognises that broader societal issues—such as gender-based violence (GBV), workplace discrimination, and unequal opportunities—can hinder women’s ability to advance in the conservation field. To address this, Women’s Leadership and Empowerment Training is a core element of the initiative. These training sessions equip women with the knowledge, leadership skills, and emotional intelligence needed to overcome barriers, advocate for themselves, and become effective leaders in conservation.
Through these targeted interventions, WCP Zambia’s Women for Conservation initiative is not just helping women succeed in conservation—it is also reshaping the landscape of the industry itself. By breaking down obstacles, fostering collaboration, and providing crucial mentorship and leadership training, the initiative is paving the way for a future where women are not only included but are leading the charge in protecting Zambia’s wildlife and natural heritage.
