OUR TEAM

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local knowledge, conservation expertise, and a deep commitment to human–elephant coexistence.

Based across Tanzania, we work side-by-side with communities to implement nature-based solutions, support women-led livelihoods, and protect vital habitats. From frontline fieldwork to strategic coordination, each team member plays a vital role in shaping a more just and connected future for people and wildlife.

In addition to our core staff, we work with a trusted group of specialists who bring unique skills and experience to strengthen our programmes. From finance and field training to environmental education, their expertise helps us deliver meaningful impact across landscapes and communities.

WILD SURVIVORS core TEAM

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    ALBERT MSHANGA | PROGRAMMES MANAGER

    Albert leads the coordination of Wild Survivors’ programmes across Tanzania, ensuring smooth operations between our field sites, partners, and communities. With a calm and collaborative style, he mentors team members, supports strategic planning, and keeps projects on track across complex, multi-site landscapes. Albert brings deep experience in governance, community training, and navigating sensitive dynamics; helping to build strong, respectful relationships wherever we work.

  • A smiling man standing outdoors in a lush green field with hills and cloudy sky in the background.

    JOHN MASAKA | HEC PROJECT COORDINATOR

    Masaka plays a central role in implementing Wild Survivors’ human–elephant coexistence programmes, coordinating local activities, data collection, and community engagement across several ecosystems. Known for his dedication in the field, he supports data collectors, leads training sessions, and helps establish new project sites. Masaka’s quiet determination and deep knowledge of conflict-prone landscapes make him an invaluable bridge between farmers, partners, and project goals.


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    FRANCESCA MAHONEY | FOUNDER & DIRECTOR

    As Executive Director, Francesca leads Wild Survivors’ strategy, fundraising, and partnerships, while guiding the Tanzanian team on programme design and long-term growth. She founded the organisation in 2016 after a career in Broadcast Journalism, where reporting across Eastern and Southern Africa exposed her to the threats facing elephants and the pressures on rural communities. Her focus on elephant cognition, ecology, and human–wildlife dynamics continues to guide Wild Survivors’ approach to coexistence.

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    ESTHER JOSEPH | BEEKEEPING & LIVELIHOODS OFFICER (Rukwa-Katavi Ecosystem)

    Esther supports women’s beekeeping groups, honey enterprises, and livelihood initiatives that form a vital part of Wild Survivors’ Coexistence Model. She works closely with women farmers and producers, guiding them through training, enterprise development, and access to markets. Esther brings warmth, drive, and an eye for detail; helping women gain confidence and income through nature-based solutions that benefit both people and elephants.


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    JOHN MASSAY | HEC OFFICER (Ngorongoro Ecosystem)

    John plays a vital role in supporting our human–elephant coexistence work in the Ngorongoro Ecosystem. With a strong foundation in conservation farming and deep roots in the local community, he brings practical knowledge and a calm, grounded approach to engaging with farmers and women’s groups. He works closely with our team to monitor conflict areas, assist in beehive fence and livelihood support, and help communities adapt to coexisting with wildlife.

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    OWEN OLIVER | HEC COORDINATOR (Rukwa–Katavi Ecosystem)

    Owen leads our elephant coexistence work in the Rukwa–Katavi landscape, where he supports villages bordering key elephant corridors. His field presence, coordination skills, and rapport with local communities have strengthened early outreach and project growth across this remote region. Owen is particularly skilled in identifying new conflict hotspots and supporting community leaders to develop tailored coexistence strategies.


WILD SURVIVORS EXTENDED TEAM

  • UPENDO MOLLEL | BEEKEEPING EXPERT & TRAINER

    Upendo brings over a decade of hands-on experience in sustainable beekeeping and community training. Based in Arusha, she supports our women’s groups and beehive fence farmers in the Ngorongoro and Serengeti ecosystems; offering practical guidance, mentorship, and quality assurance across our honey value chain.

  • ESTHER MZIRAY | FINANCE & ACCOUNTING

    Esther oversees our financial systems and reporting, ensuring transparency, compliance, and effective budget management. With a strong background in NGO finance, she supports the team to stay accountable and efficient as we scale our conservation programmes.

  • CORNELIO “LENGAI” LENGAI | WILDLIFE CLUBS & YOUTH ENGAGEMENT

    Lengai leads our youth outreach and environmental education work, coordinating Wildlife Clubs in primary and secondary schools. With a passion for conservation and creative learning, he inspires the next generation to protect wildlife and lead change in their communities.

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BOARD OF TRUSTEES: WILD SURVIVORS TANZANIA

Our Governance

Chair of the Board:

Aurelia Mtui

Trustees:

Hellen Joram

Francesca J. Mahoney

Albert Mshanga

Evanna Lyons

BOARD OF TRUSTEES: WILD SURVIVORS UK

Chair of the Board:

Martyn Griffiths

Trustees:

Dr. Samantha Corsellis

Bob Evans

Rachael Jarosh

Chyna Vincent

Catherine Harris

James Fountain

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Donors and Conservation Partners

We are hugely grateful to our committed and inspiring coalition of Conservation Partners who have helped realise our vision, supporting local communities in reaching impressive milestones to live peacefully with wildlife and protect wild spaces.

  • Logo of Jana Robeyst Trust Fund featuring silhouette of an adult and baby elephant walking over Africa map background, with the organization's name in green

  • Logo for the Elephants and Bees Project featuring black elephants with bees flying around, and the text 'Elephants and Bees Project' and 'Save the Elephants' in red.

  • Silhouette of two elephants touching trunks, with stylized water lines underneath, and the text "Elephant Sanctuary" beside them.

  • Giraffe silhouette next to the text 'PAMS Foundation'

  • Logo of 1% for the Planet, a non-profit partner, featuring a blue and white Earth with a large number 1 and percentage symbol, and the text 'For the Planet' and 'Nonprofit Partner'.

  • Logo for NWSL, the National Women's Soccer League, with the text "The CCG Trust" beneath it.

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MORE ABOUT US