Breaking Barriers in Zambia’s Conservation Landscape

For many women, a career in conservation presents a unique set of challenges. Remote locations, long deployments, and cultural expectations can make balancing professional aspirations with societal norms difficult. However, a more inclusive conservation approach can unlock a diverse workforce’s potential.

WCP Zambia’s Women for Conservation initiative tackles this head-on by creating a supportive network for Zambian women in conservation. This network fosters collaboration, knowledge sharing, and professional development, empowering over 500 women to connect, access opportunities, and advance their careers.

Building a Network

Through quarterly events, the initiative provides a physical space for women to connect, share experiences, and learn from each other. This fosters a sense of community and belonging, which is especially valuable in a traditionally male-dominated field.

Mentorship

Further amplifying its impact, the Women for Conservation initiative launched a virtual mentorship program in 2020. This program pairs aspiring Zambian conservationists with experienced local and international mentors. Evolving with the times, the program has transitioned to regular coaching sessions, guided by a dedicated mentorship handbook.

Women’s Leadership and Empowerment training

The W4C initiative recognises that issues like gender-based violence (GBV) and unequal opportunities can hinder women’s career advancement. To address this, Women’s Leadership and Empowerment training are conducted. These trainings aim to equip aspiring leaders with the knowledge and emotional intelligence needed to navigate these challenges and become effective conservation leaders.

By dismantling barriers and fostering connections, WCP Zambia’s Women for Conservation initiative is paving the way for a future where women are active participants and leaders in Zambia’s conservation efforts.