Amanda Khosa

Growing up in the bustling city of Bulawayo, Amanda found herself captivated by nature, despite living in an urban environment. Knowing the richness of Zimbabwe’s natural resources beyond the city, including its wildlife, forests and wild landscapes, drew her strongly toward nature. She became curious about why different animals and trees behaved the way they did, why some species were resilient while others were vulnerable, and how ecosystems held themselves in balance. This early curiosity about nature’s patterns, relationships and resilience gradually shaped her path.

Over time, this curiosity developed into a passion for research. Designing experiments, analysing results and asking scientific questions revealed to her that research could be both creative and transformative. A high school science project deepened this passion and encouraged her to pursue a Forest Resources and Wildlife Management degree at university, where she refined her interests in ecology and conservation science.

Amanda’s first experience working directly in nature as an intern was awe inspiring. Immersed in fieldwork, she developed a deep respect for wild landscapes and the species that inhabit them. During this time, she formed a particular connection with the majestic baobab trees as she came to understand their ecological importance, cultural meaning and remarkable resilience. Her research on baobabs and elephants strengthened her appreciation for how fragile, yet powerful, environmental relationships can be.

Her work later expanded beyond ecosystems to the people who live alongside them. Amanda has worked with both young learners and community elders, delivering conservation education, coordinating environmental workshops and supporting climate-resilience initiatives. She has witnessed the daily interactions between people and nature, from the devastation of cyclones impacting communities to the hope embodied in a young girl planting her first tree. These experiences have shaped her understanding of the complex relationships between humans, wildlife and the environment and have reinforced her belief in the importance of community action in conservation.

Amanda is a conservation educator, community organiser, published early-career researcher and budding conservation storyteller. Her work reflects her commitment to integrating science, local knowledge and environmental justice. She believes conservation must benefit both ecosystems and the people who depend on them.

She is currently pursuing her MSc degree in Conservation Biology and through it she is aspiring to advance ecological research while strengthening community-based conservation. Amanda hopes to contribute to innovative, inclusive solutions that support biodiversity, climate resilience and human wellbeing, and to inspire others to recognise their role in sustaining the natural world.