Okay, while not strictly an explorer, I so admire this woman’s spirit and tenacity, I couldn’t help myself! Also it was fun to do someone who is still walking the earth with us. So on to Gladys.
Gladys has been interested in wildlife since childhood, she organized wildlife trips for her school. She pursued her interest graduating from the University of London Royal Veterinary College and then continuing her education at North Carolina University with a Masters of Veterinary Medicine. She went on to receive and certificate from Duke University for management of non-profit organizations.
At the age of 25, she was appointed to be the veterinary officer for the Ugandan Wildlife Service that later changed became part of the Uganda Wildlife Authority. She was the first person to hold this position. During this time she pioneered the first wildlife translocation to restock Uganda’s national parks that were devestated after years of of poaching during the civil wars.
She found during her work that humans posed more than ecological risks to the mountain gorillas, she found that humans were transmitting parasites to the gorillas, making them even more vulnerable.
Following this, she helped found the Conservation Through Public Health to improve both human and ecological health in Africa. This foundation helps protect gorillas and other wildlife from humans and livestock. They use Information/Communication Technology to help educate and develop resources that help both the community and environment.
Maybe one reason I love her so much, the reason she loves gorillas so much, is because they are good mothers. If there is anything the world needs now its people helping to support mothers who are raising the next generation.
To find out more about the non-profit Conservation Through Public Health, check them out here, and maybe buy a bag of coffee in support!.
Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka • 1970 - • Ugandan Veterinarian