Kirsty Venter

As a conservationist, wildlife enthusiast and avid traveler of remote areas, Kirsty has had the privilege of experiencing many incredible adventures during her life. She completed her Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology and Entomology followed by a degree in African Vertebrate Biodiversity in South Africa. Kirsty continued her scientific career by spending six months in Antarctica studying the critically endangered Antarctic blue whale, with this research contributed to the international assessment of the blue whale population and led to her becoming a published scientist. In conjunction with her academic achievements Kirsty has dedicated the last 15 years of her life to various conservation and ecology projects both in Africa and internationally.

Kirsty's passion for marine and terrestrial ecosystems has allowed her to spend much of her time on various research projects across southern Africa, the Indian Ocean and Antarctica. Working with an array of animals including leopards, lions, elephants, meerkats, African wild dogs, Antarctic blue whales, sperm whales, southern right whales, spinner dolphins and humpback dolphins to name a few. She has lectured, led discussions and facilitated numerous local and international university students in research, learning and debates hoping her enthusiasm and love for conservation will rub off on the next generation.