THOKOZANI MLAMBO

Conservation Hero Award from the Disney Conservation Fund

As the community conservation liaison for Wildlife ACT, Thokozani has helped connect the local residents and environmental stakeholders around Mkhuze Game Reserve in northern KZN. ‘I grew up in the community I work in and they see me as a son of KwaJobe. I’ve used my knowledge to teach people to coexist with animals. It has opened their eyes because they previously didn’t see the importance. The community’s response is 100 per cent and you can see how the conservation efforts have benefited them. Lives are changing because of it.’ Thokozani found his calling early by joining a children’s environmental club, due to his fascination for birds and trees. After internships with KZN Wildlife and Mkhuze Reserve, he was well-equipped for his present job. He’s now started his own eco clubs, mentors community wildlife ambassadors and runs bush camps for kids. ‘I wish that all young people could love birds as much as I do!‘