As an ecologist I like to work on biodiversity conservation through an integrated ecosystem approach based on sound science and action research and by empowering those who depend on natural resources for their daily livelihoods. Ownership and direct involvement of local communities is the only path to sustainable change, so they will act as stewards in the long-term. I am a firm believer of bottom-up approaches as drivers of change, ideally in a multi-stakeholder setting.

 

An Bollen, Conservation consultant

ExperiencE

 

  • Ecologist with extensive work experience in forest and marine ecosystems, mainly in the tropics
  • More than 15 years of experience in biodiversity conservation and protected area management
  • Familiarity with multi-stakeholder participatory processes on environmental governance issues
  • Experience working as project coordinator or programme manager in various international NGOs
  • Strong collaboration with civil society networks and members, mainly in Africa while focusing on community based-approaches to conservation

Profile

 

  • Biologist, MSc in Zoology and PhD in Tropical Ecology
  • Finds living and working in a multi-cultural context inspiring
  • Comfortable working in various languages (English, Dutch, French, Portuguese, Spanish)
  • Skilled scuba diver and passionate of the underwater world
  • Enjoys remote tropical locations and has a soft spot for islands
  • Self-motivated, solution-oriented, multi-tasker with strong organizational skills
  • Good leadership skills, team player and high standards of integrity
  • Able to communicate publicly to a wide range of audiences

Skills

 

  • Biodiversity monitoring (including Reef Check, sea bird, sea turtle and cetacean monitoring amongst other protocols)
  • Building capacity through trainings, workshops, lectures as well as supervising MSc students
  • Setting up awareness raising events or developing tools for environmental education
  • Comfortable with project design, development, implementation and management
  • Track record of scientific and other publications
  • Experience in conservation tourism by guiding expeditions and visits, developing guidelines and tools