Yvette Ehlers-Smith

Yvette Ehlers-Smith

“Being a nice person is something worth being remembered for.” Yvette, a South African conservationist, reflects on her work in grassland conservation and the quieter, less visible impacts that define much of her career. She discusses fieldwork, long-term monitoring, and the personal motivations that sustain her work, as well as how patience and perseverance have shaped her approach over time. Yvette also shares how she defines success and legacy on her own terms, focusing on small wins, personal integrity, and influencing how people think about climate and conservation.

Frederick Mugira

“When communities are displaced, they can become enemies of what they once protected.” Ugandan journalist and National Geographic Explorer Frederick Mugira shares how growing up with water scarcity shaped his lifelong commitment to environmental journalism. He discusses walking long distances to fetch water as a child, how those experiences influenced his career choices, and why he chose storytelling as his tool for change. Frederick reflects on founding Water Journalists Africa, leading continent-wide collaborations such as InfoNile and the Apes Reporting Project, and using journalism to connect science, policy, and community voices around water, wildlife, and climate change. For more information on Water Journalists Africa, click on the link: https://waterjournalistsafrica.com/

Cléa Rekou

“I’m not 50 per cent Algerian and 50 per cent French — I’m 100 per cent of both.” Visual storyteller Cléa Rekou reflects on her journey from studying finance and working in tech to becoming a photographer exploring identity, violence, and memory. Born in France to an Algerian father and French mother, Cléa discusses growing up with a complex sense of belonging, her long separation from Algeria due to civil conflict, and the gradual reconnection with her roots. She explains her transition into photography, her evolving ethical approach to storytelling, and her decision to move to Algeria to focus fully on long-term, deeply immersive projects. Visit her page for more information on the powerful work she is doing https://clearekhou.com

Ibrahim Togola

“When you give opportunity, people see they can build a future at home.” Energy and development practitioner Ibrahim reflects on his journey from studying abroad to returning home to Mali to build community-led energy and economic development projects. He discusses founding the Mali Focus Centre, the challenges of starting from scratch, and how access to electricity can transform livelihoods, reduce migration pressures, and create long-term opportunity. Ibrahim also shares how his work has continued despite political instability, emphasising the importance of trust, local leadership, and building strong teams. Follow the link to learn more about the Mali Folkecenter https://malifolkecenter.org/en/

Dominique Goncalves

“Doubt doesn’t mean you’re on the wrong path.” Dominique reflects on her path into conservation storytelling and the motivations that continue to shape her work. She discusses navigating uncertainty, building a career that sits between science and narrative, and learning how to communicate complex environmental issues in ways that resonate with broader audiences. Dominique also speaks about self-doubt, growth, and the importance of finding clarity through action rather than waiting for certainty.