In May, Biophilic Conversations, in partnership with TonyWild Foundation, launched the inaugural Conservation Photography Exposure Program, a 5-month mentorship initiative designed to support emerging photographers passionate about nature and storytelling.
In the past, we have conducted personal training with individual upcoming photographers. But through this fellowship, we are thrilled to bring the vision to life in a more structured way, gathering a diverse cohort of fellows who will help grow the community of conservation photographers and storytellers across Africa.
What a beautiful first session we had with our new cohort. The energy and enthusiasm on the call confirmed just how needed this space is. Over the coming months, fellows will dive into the foundations of photography, explore the ethics of conservation storytelling, and develop powerful narratives rooted in the African perspective.
This program is not only about technical training, it is about shaping the future of conservation narratives. By telling our own stories, we aim to document the present for future generations, building with both impact and action in mind.
After a competitive selection process, we are excited to introduce the eight fellows who will embark on this journey with us:
Aaron is a photographer and conservationist based in Mfuwe, South Luangwa National Park. A proud alumnus of the Chipembele Wildlife Education Trust, Aaron has received multiple awards for his conservation achievements and photography. His work has been published in Travel & Leisure Zambia, Zimbabwe & Botswana Magazine and recognised by the Photographic Society of South Africa. Currently, he works as an in-house photographer at the Bushcamp Company and Mfuwe Lodge, using his craft to showcase the beauty of nature and advocate for conservation.
Auriol is a visual artist and photographer studying Visual Arts and Art History at the Libre Académie des Beaux-Arts de Douala. His projects focus on environmental issues and biodiversity, and he was recently awarded the Public Choice Award during the Street Whales photography competition for his work on marine species protection. Auriol has exhibited in major cultural events, including at the National Museum in Yaoundé, and participated in the 2025 NEWF Congress in South Africa. He is committed to using visual storytelling as a tool for awareness and social transformation.
Mwanaisha, known artistically as *Wa Macoya* (“banana leaves” in Kikuyu), is a nature photographer whose work is deeply connected to her environment. Her journey began with a fascination for early mobile videos, later nurtured through experimenting with DSLR photography. Her practice emphasises light, texture, and stillness in the wild. Today, she uses her growing storytelling skills to create conservation-focused photography that inspires respect, reflection, and action.
Based in Kakuma Refugee Camp, Denis is a young photographer and ethical storyteller documenting the intersections of refugee life, climate change, and children’s rights. His work has been featured by The Guardian and exhibited internationally, including in Bogotá, Colombia. He also serves as an educator with the Global Secondary Diploma (GSD) program, empowering refugee and host communities through education. Through photography, Denis amplifies unheard voices while advocating for environmental and social justice.
Elphas is a communicator, storyteller, and youth advocate passionate about stories that inspire change. He currently works as a Communications Associate at Daraja Academy and volunteers as the Assistant Communication Lead at Kenya Malaria Youth Corps. His work centers on making complex issues accessible, amplifying young voices, and highlighting the intersections between people and nature. Elphas believes in storytelling as a tool for connection, healing, and social impact.
Wangui is a visual documentarian whose work captures the beauty of people, cultures, and the natural world. With a deep interest in portraiture and cultural traditions, she uses her lens to chronicle stories that celebrate humanity and nature, acting as a time capsule for future generations. Her goal is to create imagery that evokes empathy while honouring the richness of both cultural and ecological diversity.
Based in Watamu, Fanaka is a conservation photographer and naturalist with Bahari Hai Conservation. His work in science communication highlights marine and wildlife conservation, while also engaging coastal communities through environmental education. Skilled in photography, videography, and design, Fanaka creates impactful visual content that promotes sustainable practices and biodiversity protection.
Maureen is a Communications and Digital Media professional based in Nairobi, Kenya. With a passion for capturing the beauty and fragility of the natural world through photography, her storytelling work highlights wildlife and landscapes in compelling ways. Recently awarded third place in the Tembea Kenya Photography Contest, she continues to use visual media to inspire awareness and action for conservation and sustainable resource management.
The fellows will engage in monthly virtual mentorship sessions, portfolio development reviews, and themed assignments designed to sharpen both their technical and narrative skills. Starting next month, guest speakers from across the conservation and creative industries will join us to share their expertise.
This program is about building a movement. Together with TonyWild Foundation, the Biophilic Conversations is proud to nurture this new wave of storytellers who will help shape Africa’s conservation narratives for generations to come.
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