CivSource South Africa hosted a truly remarkable evening, starring none other than the illustrious Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka. Her extraordinary odyssey not only defied the odds but also underscored the immense potency harboured within fervour, unyielding resolve, and the synergy of united endeavours. In this narrative, her journey radiates as a living proof that these forces possess the profound ability to mould a more luminous destiny for both the realms of wildlife and human societies.
Dr. Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka, an esteemed 2022 Edinburgh Medal recipient, National Geographic Explorer, and the esteemed winner of the Sierra Club Earthcare Award, has dedicated her life to the cause of wildlife conservation. Her journey began humbly, with caring for stray animals at home and founding a wildlife club during her school days. Hailing from an African society steeped in male dominance, she displayed unwavering determination to rise above gender-based barriers, ultimately becoming Uganda’s first wildlife veterinarian. Her pivotal role in treating the critically endangered mountain gorillas of Bwindi National Park brought her global recognition.
However, Dr. Kalema-Zikusoka’s journey didn’t end there. She went on to establish the non-profit organization Conservation Through Public Health. This pioneering initiative prioritizes human health as a means to safeguard wildlife, emphasizing the interconnectedness of ecosystems and communities. Complementing her non-profit efforts, she launched the social enterprise Gorilla Conservation Coffee, a platform that not only protects endangered gorillas but also promotes the well-being and prosperity of local human communities, thus becoming a true steward of the planet. Read more