Kenyan conservationist, National Geographic Explorer and 2021 Rolex National Geographic Explorer of the Year, Dr. Paula Kahumbu, is in Washington, DC this week attending the National Geographic Explorers Festival 2026, where her photograph currently appears on the entrance doors of National Geographic headquarters as the organization opens its new Museum of Exploration.

2025 has been an amazingly productive year for WildlifeDirect.  We piloted Africa’s first Biomimicry Challenge for the youth and saw magic before our eyes!  We also concluded a pilot project with Wallobooks of India, an innovative book-writing project designed to amplify values into conservation education through storytelling.

The celebrated African wildlife series formerly known as Wildlife Warriors is returning to TV under a new name: WildlifeDirect Warriors. The relaunch brings exciting news! The show will now air on Akili Network, Kenya’s free-to-air educational children’s channel, dramatically expanding access to millions of viewers across the country.

As many of you may be aware, Kenya has been in the news as thousands of young people demonstrate against corruption and call for the rejection of the Finance Bill, 2024. Sadly, the government retaliation has been swift and brutal, and several young people have been killed and many injured. We want you to know that we and all our partners are safe.

We bring you up to date on how local conservation filmmaking in Africa is breaking new ground, offering authentic narratives that have long been overshadowed by foreign content. These films are reshaping perceptions and fostering a deep connection between African children, local communities, and their natural heritage.

We are delighted to announce that our Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Paula Kahumbu will be speaking at this year's Nature, Environment & Wildlife Filmmakers Congress in South Africa. Paula will be one of the  inspiring, powerful women giving a key note address on Mandela Day, July 18th.