Nelly Nshimirimana

I hold a bachelor's degree in Zoology and Conservation from University of Rwanda, and I am currently completing a master's degree in environmental economics and Natural Resource Management at University of Lay Adventists of Kigali (UNILAK). I joined Akagera National Park in October 2019 as community liaison officer. Before becoming part of the Akagera team, I worked as a professional intern at Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International, where I gained valuable experience working with local communities and implementing environmental education programs in schools neighboring protected areas. I strongly believe that nature conservation can be truly successful when local communities are actively involved and empowered to participate in conservation efforts.