The four recipients of the Fran Duthie African Elephant Conservation Scholarship administered by Mara Elephant Project continue to pursue their conservation related degrees. Here are a few recent updates.
Leshan Tipis
Leshan’s passion for wildlife has always been deeply ingrained, but his time at Maasai Mara University has transformed it into a focused journey toward making a real impact. As a second-year student pursuing a bachelor’s degree in wildlife management, Leshan is navigating the highs and challenges of academia while striving to make a difference in conservation.
The semester began on September 9, 2024, and marked a period of intensive learning. Leshan delved into courses like wildlife ecology, conservation principles, and sustainable resource management. These subjects opened his eyes to the intricacies of biodiversity preservation and equipped him with practical research methodologies. However, the semester was not without hurdles. A series of lecturers’ strikes disrupted the academic schedule, limiting access to essential resources. Instead of faltering, Leshan adapted. He turned to independent study, online materials, and peer discussions to keep pace with his coursework.
Despite these challenges, Leshan’s dedication shone brightly. His academic efforts earned him the title of the most decorated student in the School of Natural Resources, a recognition for holding the highest number of certificates and awards in his cohort. Beyond the classroom, he embarked on a significant fieldwork project focused on wildlife population monitoring. The hands-on experience allowed him to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, honing his skills in data collection and analysis.
“The Fran Duthie Scholarship has been a game-changer for me. It has eased financial burdens and given me the freedom to fully engage with my studies and extracurricular activities.” This support has fueled his aspirations to excel academically and pursue his dreams with renewed vigor.
Looking ahead, Leshan has set ambitious goals. He plans to publish his first academic paper in the next semester and participate in more field-based studies to deepen his research expertise. Internships with national parks and conservation organizations are also on the horizon, where he hopes to gain hands-on experience in species protection, habitat restoration, and sustainable resource management. But Leshan isn’t stopping there. He envisions mentorship sessions as part of the scholarship program, where professionals in wildlife conservation can guide students like him. “Connecting with experts would bridge the gap between academic learning and career readiness,” he suggests.
As he charts his path forward, Leshan is a testament to resilience and determination. With his eyes set on graduating in May 2027, he continues to blend classroom learning with practical conservation efforts, proving that passion and persistence can truly make a difference.
Mark Mako
When Mark received the Fran Duthie Scholarship to pursue a Bachelor of Environmental Conservation and Natural Resources Management at the University of Nairobi, it marked the beginning of an inspiring journey. Now in his second year, Mark reflects on his experiences, challenges, and aspirations with unwavering determination and hope for the future.
Starting his academic journey on September 25, 2023, Mark dived into a rigorous program that enriched his understanding of ecological systems and environmental management principles. During this reporting period, he completed courses like Fundamentals of Aquatic Ecology, Biomolecules, Weather and Climate, Plant Ecology, Fundamentals of Arthropod Biology, and Principles of Landscape Ecology. These units not only expanded his knowledge but also deepened his appreciation for the intricate balance of nature.
“Each course has been instrumental in shaping my perspective on environmental conservation,” Mark shares. “From understanding the dynamics of aquatic ecosystems to exploring the role of arthropods in biodiversity, I’ve gained invaluable insights into the world around us.”
The path hasn’t been without hurdles. A lecturer strike in November disrupted the academic calendar, delaying classes and exams. Yet, Mark saw this setback as an opportunity. “I used the downtime to review course materials, engage in self-study, and work on personal projects. It was a challenging time, but it taught me the importance of adaptability and self-motivation,” he says.
Mark’s passion for environmental conservation extends beyond academics. He is in the process of forming a community organization aimed at promoting environmental awareness and sustainable practices. While still in its early stages, this initiative reflects his commitment to driving positive change. “I want to create a platform that empowers communities to take action and protect our natural resources,” he explains.
The Fran Duthie Scholarship has been a transformative force in Mark’s life. “It has relieved financial pressures and allowed me to focus fully on my studies and personal growth,” he acknowledges. “The scholarship inspires me to push boundaries and strive for greater achievements in the field of environmental conservation.”
Mark’s immediate goal is to excel in his upcoming exams, laying a strong foundation for the rest of his academic journey. Beyond that, he plans to gain practical experience through an internship with the Mara Elephant Project after his second semester. “I’m eager to apply my knowledge in real-world scenarios and contribute meaningfully to conservation efforts,” he says.
Long-term, Mark envisions a career dedicated to preserving the environment and empowering communities. “I’m committed to making a difference, whether through academic excellence, community initiatives, or hands-on conservation work,” he states confidently.
When asked about the scholarship program, Mark’s gratitude shines through. “Everything about the program has been excellent so far. I have no suggestions for improvement—just immense appreciation for the opportunity it has given me,” he expresses.
Mark Mako’s journey is a testament to the power of education, resilience, and a clear vision. With the support of the Fran Duthie Scholarship, he is not only building a brighter future for himself but also paving the way for a more sustainable world. As he continues to grow academically and personally, his story serves as an inspiration to others pursuing their dreams in environmental conservation.
Mary Wangari
Mary, a fourth-year Conservation Biology student at Kenyatta University, is a shining example of resilience and determination. Supported by the Fran Duthie Scholarship, Mary has embraced her academic journey with enthusiasm, balancing coursework, research, and extracurricular activities.
Over the past semester, Mary has delved into vital courses like Ecosystem Management, Environmental Policy and Law, and Emerging Global Environmental Issues, which have broadened her understanding of conservation. However, the challenge of balancing these demands with her final-year research project has tested her time management skills. With the guidance of her supervisor and a commitment to organization, Mary has stayed on track, maintaining an impressive GPA of 64.77 (B).
Her efforts have not gone unnoticed. Mary recently completed a leadership training certificate and a safety training program offered by Total Energies, enhancing her practical skills. She also stood out as a cultural ambassador during her university’s annual Culture Week, earning recognition for her representation.
Among her achievements, Mary takes pride in her ongoing research project titled “The Role of Informal Waste Collectors in Urban Solid Waste Management.” This initiative highlights her commitment to addressing urban environmental challenges while advancing her academic goals.
The Fran Duthie Scholarship has been transformative for Mary, alleviating financial pressures and enabling her to seize opportunities like climate workshops, leadership training, and safety certifications. These experiences have not only enriched her knowledge but also boosted her confidence, reinforcing her belief in the power of support to unlock potential.
Looking ahead, Mary’s short-term goals include completing and publishing her research project and securing an internship to gain hands-on experience in conservation. She envisions this internship as a steppingstone to practical application of her theoretical knowledge, paving the way for postgraduate studies and advanced roles in her field.
As Mary reflects on her journey, she expresses gratitude for the scholarship and offers a thoughtful suggestion: introducing mentorship programs to connect students with professionals in conservation. She believes such guidance would inspire more impactful research and career pathways.
Mary’s story is a testament to the impact of support and determination. With her eyes set on the future, she continues to inspire others through her commitment to conservation and academic excellence.
Sumaiyah Yakub
Sumaiyah is a passionate student at the University of Nairobi, pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Wildlife Management and Conservation. Currently in her second year of study, Sumaiyah began her academic journey in September 2023 and is set to graduate in June 2027.
In her first year, Sumaiyah immersed herself in the fascinating world of wildlife conservation through rigorous coursework. She successfully completed ten diverse units, including Vertebrate Anatomy, Biogeography, Biochemistry, Descriptive Botany, General Zoology, Ichthyology, Ornithology, Herpetology, Eco-physiology, and Entomology, achieving a commendable mean grade of B. Her academic standing remains strong, as she has passed all her course units without the need for supplementary exams, ensuring she stays on track to meet her scholarship’s requirements.
Sumaiyah’s dedication goes beyond the classroom. She recently completed an additional course on Project Management for Wildlife Conservation, earning a certification that aligns perfectly with her career goals. Moreover, she is working on a conservation podcast aimed at inspiring youth to pursue careers in conservation. These efforts reflect her passion and commitment to making a tangible difference in the field.
Despite facing external challenges like lecturer and student strikes, Sumaiyah has managed to navigate her journey smoothly. Her ability to adapt and focus on what’s within her control is a testament to her resilience and determination. The scholarship has been a transformative support system for Sumaiyah, alleviating financial stress and allowing her to concentrate on her studies and skill development. She expresses gratitude for the opportunity, which she credits as a key factor in her academic and personal growth.
Sumaiyah is determined to maintain her standing as one of the top students in her class. She has her sights set on gaining practical experience through internships during her third or fourth year, with a particular interest in contributing to the Mara Elephant Project. Her short-term goals include excelling academically and acquiring the skills necessary to make a meaningful impact in conservation. Her long-term aspirations involve becoming a professional in wildlife conservation, equipped with the knowledge and experience to drive change.
Sumaiyah’s story is one of perseverance, passion, and purpose. Through her podcast and academic efforts, she aims to inspire others to join her in championing the cause of conservation. Her journey serves as a reminder of the critical role youth play in shaping a sustainable future for our planet. As Sumaiyah continues her journey, she invites us all to reflect on the importance of conservation and the power of education in driving meaningful change.
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