Episode 12: Damien Mander, Founder of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation

On this new Wild For Change podcast episode, we will be speaking with Damien Mander, founder of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation.  Damien was a naval clearance diver and special operations sniper for the Australian Defense Force.  He completed 3 years of duty in Iraq.  While traveling through Africa, he was inspired by the work of game rangers.  He decided to liquidate all his assets to create the International Anti-Poaching Foundation (IAPF) in 2009.  The mission of IAPF is to deliver ecological stability and long-term protection of large-scale wilderness landscapes by supporting and empowering local communities.  In 2017, IAPF founded Africa’s first armed, plant-based diet, all women anti-poaching unit called Akashinga – which means the Brave Ones.  This unit began with 16 women who came from the local community and were trained to protect nature reserves.  The goal is to employ 1,000 women protecting 20 nature reserves by 2025.  Now women have the opportunity as much as men to be on the frontlines protecting the wildlife.Key accomplishments made by IAPF:1.3 million acres have been protected by AkashingaThere has been an 80% reduction in poaching in the communities where IAPF serves.350% increase in wildlifeIn 2019, Damien received the Winsome Constance Kindness Gold Medal.  It is a prestigious award given to individuals who dedicate their lives to humanitarian and animal causes.  During this podcast, we learn from Damien:How women rangers are helping change the face of conservation Why looking after nature can provide us with a brighter futureWhat we can do to help improve the future for animals, ourselves, and our planet What IAPF’s vision is for the next ten yearsWebsite: http://www.wildforchange.comTwitter: @WildForChangeFacebook: /wildforchangeInstagram: wildforchange