Lailat Guta

BSc. (Hons) Agriculture and Nature Conservation, EARTH University, Costa Rica

Growing up, my father who was an agronomist and veterinarian, inspired me with his passion for his work. When  in high school, I was selected to attend the African Leadership Academy in Johannesburg (SA), where discussions on Africa’s challenges – unemployment, hunger, poverty and environmental problems- made me reflect on what could be my contribution to my community. I saw a huge potential in agriculture as the solution to many problems in our society, which could impact many lives.   

At EARTH University, I learned to have a holistic view of agriculture and consider all forms of life and their importance in the ecosystems. I learned to understand that I am part of nature, and I developed a deep respect for biodiversity and awareness of global issues like climate change and our responsibilities as humans.

From 2017 – 2023, I worked as a technical assistant at an Agricultural Input Distribution company, where I worked with, and influenced farmers on best choices and practices for a more sustainable agriculture and a healthier environment.

In late 2023, I got the opportunity to participate in field work with Projecto Sego in Niassa, where I was privileged to witness what human and wildlife coexistence with conservation efforts looks like in real life.

Now, I am a master’s student on the Honeyguide Research Project, I am testing to see if bee pollination services to small-scale crops are resilient to the harvesting of wild bees’ nests in cooperation with honeyguides. I am also studying the interactions/ conflicts between services provided by bees and trees to people. My work is based in the Niassa Special Reserve in Mozambique, in collaboration with small-scale farmers and honey-hunters from the Mbamba village community.

My personal goal is to learn as much as possible with my amazing team of colleagues who are passionate biologists and contribute to solutions that help preserve the natural beauty I have been privileged to witness in the Niassa Special Reserve, Mozambique.

I am supervised by Prof. Claire Spottiswoode, Dr Colleen Seymour and Dr Jessica van der Wal.