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Shivan Kamugisha, a doctoral candidate and research assistant in the College of Natural Sciences’ Department of Environmental Conservation, was recently chosen as the recipient of the Wildlife Conservation Network (WCN) Rising Wildlife Leaders Scholarship, which will support her work studying African lions.

This scholarship supports “emerging conservationists, especially those from local and Indigenous communities, by providing financial assistance for graduate education in conservation-related fields.”

“Winning the WCN scholarship is an incredible honor, and I am absolutely thrilled,” Kamugisha says. “This opportunity will not only enhance my educational journey but also significantly contribute to my professional growth. It provides the resources and support I need to deepen my understanding of conservation practices and expand my network within the global conservation community. I am excited to apply this knowledge to make a meaningful impact in my field.” 

WCN’s scholarship program offers up to $25,000 in support for tuition and living expenses for the duration of the recipient’s academic program. The scholarships are designed to “empower future leaders with the skills, knowledge, and mentorship necessary to drive effective wildlife conservation efforts in their home countries.” By investing in local expertise, WCN aims to ensure that “conservation solutions are led by individuals most connected to the landscapes and species they aim to protect.” 

“I intend to conduct a socio-ecological systems assessment of factors influencing the African lion population in the Greater Virunga Landscape, a transfrontier conservation area in Eastern Africa,” explains Kamugisha. “Lions face increasing threats from habitat fragmentation, land use change, climate variability, and human-wildlife conflict. By examining the complex social and ecological interactions, I aim to develop sustainable conservation strategies that address both wildlife protection and community needs in this biodiversity-rich landscape.” 

“Shivan’s selection for this scholarship is a well-deserved recognition of her exceptional efforts in African wildlife conservation,” says Timothy Randhir, a professor and graduate concentration coordinator in the Department of Environmental Conservation. “She is engaged in pioneering work centered on the conservation of African lions and is an emerging scholar conducting significant research on African wildlife and ecosystems, which are increasingly threatened by conflicts, land use and climate change.”

More information about the WCN can be found at wildnet.org.