EVA AYARO JOHNSON

CO-FOUNDER & MANAGING DIRECTOR

Eva Johnson Ayaro is a passionate Tanzanian herpetologist and conservationist with a deep commitment to protecting endangered reptiles and amphibians. As the co-founder and Managing Director of the Women in Conservation Organization (WICO), Eva champions biodiversity conservation through research, education, and the empowerment of women in the conservation field.

Eva holds a degree in Wildlife Sciences and Conservation from the University of Dar es Salaam and is currently advancing her expertise through postgraduate studies at the University of Oxford’s Wildlife Conservation Research Unit (WildCRU). Throughout her career, Eva has led ground breaking conservation projects supported by prestigious organizations including EDGE of Existence, the Rufford Foundation, the Conservation Leadership Programme (CLP), the Fonseca Fund, and MBZ, focusing on threatened species of pygmy chameleons, frogs, and freshwater turtles.

Her work combines scientific research with community action, empowering local communities and mentoring the next generation of conservation leaders. By integrating grassroots efforts with global conservation strategies, Eva is making a lasting impact on the preservation of Tanzania’s unique wildlife and advancing the role of women in conservation.

LUCIA REVELIANI

CO-FOUNDER | WILDLIFE RESEARCHER | COMMUNITY CONSERVATIONIST

Lucia Reveliani is a passionate wildlife researcher and one of the visionary co-founders of the Women in Conservation Organization (WICO). Her work is centered around balancing human-wildlife interactions, wildlife ecology, and community empowerment through conservation. With a focus on integrating scientific research with local knowledge, Lucia advocates for sustainable, grassroots solutions that promote biodiversity conservation. She is a strong proponent of women’s leadership in conservation and remains a driving force in preserving Tanzania’s wildlife and ecosystems.

SARAH MSHANGA

RESEARCH ASSISTANT & CONSERVATION BIOLOGIST

Sarah Mshanga is a dedicated conservation biologist and Research Assistant at WICO. With a strong academic background in Wildlife Management, Sarah has worked extensively in biodiversity conservation, focusing on field research, community engagement, and the promotion of sustainable livelihoods. She has previously interned with Honeyguide Foundation, Lion Landscapes Tanzania, and the Greater Mahale Ecosystem Research and Conservation Project. Sarah currently leads a community-based green turtle conservation initiative on Mafia Island under WICO. She also advocates for the inclusion of women in conservation leadership roles, serving as an alumna of the Women in Conservation Technology Program and the Climate Justice Camp in Tanzania.

JANETH SAMWEL

RESEARCH INTERN

Janeth Samwel is a research intern at WICO, holding a BSc. in Wildlife Management from Sokoine University of Agriculture. Her internships at Serengeti National Park, Tarangire National Park, and Mikumi National Park have provided her with invaluable fieldwork experience. Janeth supports WICO’s conservation efforts by conducting ecological research, biodiversity assessments, and providing data to guide sustainable conservation practices. She has also worked with Nature Tanzania and WISASUA, equipping her with the skills necessary to make a significant impact in the field of conservation.

JESCA MGANDA

RESEARCH INTERN

Jesca Mario Mganda is a research intern at WICO, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Wildlife Management from Sokoine University of Agriculture. She has gained valuable hands-on experience through field training in Mikumi National Park, Tarangire National Park, and Saadani National Park. Jesca is dedicated to advancing conservation efforts through research, biodiversity monitoring, and sustainable environmental practices. Her commitment to protecting Tanzania’s natural resources is evident in her active involvement in WICO’s field projects and research initiatives.