Nkazimulo Lima

Raised in the bustling city of Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, Nkazimulo developed a deep appreciation for nature through her mother's guidance. During childhood walks through the nearby bush, her mother introduced her to the wonders of the natural world, teaching her about medicinal plants, birds, and the interconnectedness of nature, all in their native Ndebele language. These early experiences fostered her profound love for nature.

Initially drawn to veterinary medicine, Nkazimulo later discovered her passion for conservation through career guidance in school. This led her to pursue a BSc Honours Degree in Forest Resources and Wildlife Management at the National University of Science and Technology in Bulawayo.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, when the world felt uncertain and restricted, Nkazimulo found solace in nature. Seeking a sense of connection and a source of joy, Nkazimulo joined the Mat'land Chirpers birding group. This experience provided a much-needed escape and birthed her passion for birdwatching and ornithology. It also facilitated her work at Zimbabwean bird and wildlife rehabilitation centres, where she cared for injured birds and mammals, mentored volunteers, and also conducted educational tours.

Driven by a desire to contribute more significantly to conservation, Nkazimulo gained valuable experience through internships with conservation organizations in Botswana and Zambia. She participated in annual lion surveys, contributing to research efforts to understand lion populations and inform conservation strategies.

Nkazimulo is currently pursuing a Master's degree in Conservation Biology to nurture her growing interest in ornithology and to obtain the skills needed to be a successful conservation scientist. She thrives in outdoor environments, finding joy in birding, hiking, and photography, and is committed to capturing the beauty and diversity of wildlife.