On International Women’s Day, we're celebrating the women who influence, inspire and uplift us every day.
To mark the occasion, we spoke to four incredible women who are blazing the way forward in wildlife conservation about their lives and work - protecting endangered animals in the world's wildest places. From rescuing orphan elephants in Kenya, to protecting marine environments, and providing veterinary units for injured wildlife - these women are making such a difference to the wildlife that inspires our designs.
Proving that together, we are truly a force of nature!
Tell us how you got into conservation work?
Since I first opened my eyes, I have been surrounded by wild animals. My father, David Sheldrick, was the founding warden of Tsavo East National Park and my mother, Daphne Sheldrick, was the first person in the world to successfully raise infant orphaned African elephants and rhinos.
What inspires you most about the work you do?
As the challenges facing our natural world continue to stack up, it is both inspiring and humbling to be able to proactively change the fate of so many wild animals’ lives though our elephant Orphans’ Program and Mara Veterinary Unit. I’m also inspired by our team: field conservation is a difficult job that takes courage, commitment and remarkable people.
What has observing the animals you work with taught you about yourself
Elephants have taught me to live in the moment, to cherish those dear to us, but also to look to turn the page in times of heartbreak.
One thing you would tell your younger self?
“I don’t know what you did in your last life to deserve this one — but with gratitude, make it count.”
Tell us how you got into conservation work?
I spent a lot of my youth at the coast and in nature and started diving when I was 14.
What has observing the animals you work with taught you about yourself?
Animals show us how to live in harmony with the environment; I’m striving to do that through my work, croft and mussel farm producing sustainable food.
How do you reconnect with the natural world?
From my croft in Skye I’m lucky to be surrounded by it - with hills, native forests and ocean all within a mile. I also love being in the sea and scuba diving.
One thing you would tell your younger self about the future ahead of you?
Remember to look back and acknowledge how far you’ve come, and all you’ve achieved.
What inspires you most about the work you do?
Witnessing how an idea can evolve and gain momentum when shared with others who share my passion for creating a better world for both people and nature.
What has observing the animals you work with taught you about yourself?
Everything in the reef has a purpose - and every role, no matter how small, is essential. It reminds me to stay humble, and to recognize and value my own contributions to the greater picture.
The best piece of advice you've ever been given?
Changing the status quo often requires stirring the pot. I've learned that embracing discomfort and resilience is essential for driving meaningful change in conservation and beyond.
How do you reconnect with the natural world?
Around running an NGO, it can be a struggle to find balance - but this year, I'm committing to daily ocean swims with my camera to capture the reef's beauty. Sharing my pictures on social media helps me to reconnect with nature, and inspire others to appreciate its wonders.
Tell us how you got into conservation work?
Through my late father, and my husband Jaisal’s family legacy and personal experiences, which are deeply connected to India’s wilderness and Ranthambhore. We met just after he started SUJÁN Sher Bagh conservation-focussed safari camp, and together we grew SUJÁN into the pioneering conservation tourism companies it is today
What's the best piece of advice you've ever been given?
If you’re in the room, you belong there. True leadership comes from owning our place, trusting our expertise, and contributing with confidence and impact.
What has observing the animals you work with taught you about yourself?
Animals live in the moment, they don’t dwell on the past or worry about the future. That has been a powerful lesson for me. To be present, focus on what I can control, and appreciate the simple, meaningful moments.
How do you reconnect with the natural world?
By simply spending time in it. Silently out in the wild.
Learn more about Sheldrick Wildlife Trust at sheldrickwildlifetrust.org; Blue Marine Foundation bluemarinefoundation.com; SUJÁN Life thesujanlife.com
