Catch up on everything we’ve been doing in the second quarter of 2025 - it’s been busy!
What does it take to restore a landscape? Sometimes, it starts with something as small as a biting fly - or a chicken. In Uganda’s Kidepo Valley, we’re working with the Platcorp Foundation on two projects that are making a real difference for both wildlife and local communities. It’s a partnership rooted in shared values and a long-term vision, where practical (and unexpected) solutions meet ambitious goals.
The Green Heart Gala was an unforgettable evening of conservation, community, and commitment to protecting the Everglades. With passionate advocates, conservation leaders, and generous supporters gathered under one roof, the event raised over $120,000 to safeguard this vital ecosystem. From an exciting live auction to inspiring speeches, the night showcased the power of collective action. Thanks to our sponsors, partners, and attendees, we are one step closer to securing a future for the land, water, and wildlife of the Everglades.
Rhinos are set to return to Kidepo Valley National Park after decades of absence. Led by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, Uganda Conservation Foundation and others, a 17,050-acre sanctuary is under construction to safely reintroduce 40 rhinos . Beyond conservation, this initiative will restore Kidepo’s ecosystem, boost biodiversity, and create sustainable ecotourism opportunities for local communities. WildLandscapes International is proud to support this historic effort - ensuring a future where rhinos once again roam free in Uganda.
As we close another remarkable year, we reflect on the milestones, challenges, and stories that have shaped our journey in 2024. This year has been a testament to the power of collaboration and the enduring commitment to safeguarding our planet’s most precious landscapes.
We’re taking a moment to celebrate the people, projects, and progress that have defined the past year - and looking ahead to the exciting opportunities and challenges of 2025. Thank you for being an essential part of our mission.
We are honored to welcome Curtis Osceola, Chief of Staff for the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida, to our Board of Directors. A tireless advocate for Everglades restoration and Tribal sovereignty, Curtis has been instrumental in advancing initiatives that safeguard Indigenous lands, integrate cultural heritage with modern conservation, and strengthen community well-being. With expertise in legal strategy, policy, and cross-sector collaboration, Curtis’s leadership will be invaluable in guiding our mission to empower Indigenous communities and drive sustainable conservation efforts in Florida and beyond.
We are proud to share that Dr. Bibhab Kumar Talukdar, CEO and Secretary General of Aaranyak, our partner in Northeast India, has been nominated for the 2025 Indianapolis Prize, the "Nobel Prize of Animal Conservation." This honor recognizes his decades of dedication to protecting endangered species and critical habitats. Bibhab's visionary leadership continues to inspire global conservation efforts, and we celebrate this well-deserved recognition of his incredible work.
On the 3rd December 2024, 1,274 rangers - the largest cohort ever - graduated from the Kenya Wildlife Service’s Law Enforcement Academy at Manyani, marking a pivotal moment for conservation in Kenya. With President William Ruto and other dignitaries in attendance, this milestone highlights the vital role of rangers in safeguarding Kenya’s natural heritage. WildLandscapes International was proud to participate, with Director David Houghton donating a drone to support conservation efforts. Discover how these dedicated individuals and collaborative initiatives are shaping a sustainable future for Kenya's wildlife and habitats.
Our team at WildLandscapes is growing! We’re excited to welcome new talent in program strategy, communication, and conservation, strengthening our ability to protect and restore wild landscapes. With expertise spanning international development, storytelling, and on-the-ground conservation, these additions enhance our capacity to tackle complex challenges and drive meaningful impact worldwide.
In September, WildLandscapes facilitated an inspiring advocacy visit to Washington, D.C., for senior leaders of Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), led by Director General Dr. Erustus Kanga. The delegation showcased KWS’s bold conservation priorities—like black rhino recovery and community-led wildlife protection - to U.S. policymakers, including Senators Chris Coons and Elizabeth Warren, and key organizations such as USAID and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This visit sparked valuable partnerships, highlighted KWS’s transformative vision, and laid the groundwork for future collaboration. The trip concluded with a visit to Yellowstone National Park, providing inspiration for managing large-scale protected areas.