Shannon Elizabeth Foundation

Globally, women from disadvantaged communities face gender-based challenges in advancing their careers—and conservation is no exception. In Africa, women are agents of change, development, sustainability, and natural resource management in their communities. Whether they reside in cities or rural areas, the legacy of women on the African continent is interwoven with the forests, valleys, streams, and mountains. They are on the frontlines of climate change, biodiversity, economic crises, and even political instability. Their experience and innovations are invaluable for a better future.

A lack of female indigenous diversity and representation has plagued conservation for far too long. By virtue of this discrepancy, we have launched our One Woman’s Legacy scholarship fund & mentorship program to uplift and support women in conservation, starting in the forefronts of Africa.

We believe that to truly maximize impact and make immense change, few things work as well as political reform which bolsters new and existing laws that effectively combat the illegal wildlife trade, stifle poaching syndicates and disrupt the rampant killing of our natural world. Instead of making ubiquitous emotional appeals, we choose rather to use rational, science-based data to support sound decision-making by our lawmakers.

We consult objectively with lawmakers to better inform policy decisions. We have been increasing our presence in Washington, D.C., consulting with senators and representatives of Congress on various bills across multiple international issues such as trade, poaching, poorly regulated tourism and wildlife ownership.
We demonstrate how the decisions taken by politicians affect people on the ground in places like Africa where economies, societies, and wildlife sustainability are impacted. Also, issues of national security become critical discussions as we communicate how these international issues affect the people of America.

We are also increasing our presence in South Africa, building relationships with local parliamentarians and ministers.

Our biggest and most significant program is currently our sanctuary in South Africa that's home to our blind, very rare, black rhino named Munu. About a year ago we acquired a beautiful piece of conservation land and have completed Phase 1 and of a new sanctuary and breeding facility for Munu and several cows of the same sub-species. This land is the perfect home for Munu as the vegetation is identical to what he grew up browsing on, and it will support all of his species to help them thrive.

The sanctuary is completely off-grid with fresh drinking water and a home for Munu’s caretakers and security team. But it's urgent we start our next phase buildout to get the facility ready to receive more animals. We must increase all of the infrastructure so that we can expand our staff and eventually bring in a full-time vet, as the animals require such. This includes solar, housing units, vehicles, and water.