
Our Team

Our core People For Wildlife staff lead specialised and highly expert teams of scientists and local practitioners to undertake conservation management, wildlife research, and establishment of nature-based economic opportunities in each of the landscapes in which we work.

Dr. Daniel Natush
EXECUTIVE director
People For Wildlife founder, Dr. Daniel Natusch, is a leading conservation expert and field biologist. He has worked in conservation research, policy, and development, and currently chairs the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)’s Snake Specialist Group. Daniel has advised many of the world’s largest companies on ways to improve their sourcing of nature-based raw materials and has worked around the world to align several sectors with UN Sustainable Development Goals.

Dr. Patrick Aust
CONSERVATION MANAGER - AFRICA
Dr Patrick Aust specialises in integrating conservation biology with agriculture and sustainable development. He has worked on many African species, from crocodiles to lions, and consults for organisations including CITES, IUCN, and the International Multistakeholder Association for Reptile Conservation (IMARC). Patrick is driven to find practical approaches to prevent species loss, and much of his work has focused on developing new food production systems that enhance food security, reduce poverty, foster livelihood diversification and raise the standard of living for vulnerable communities in Africa and Asia.

Dr. Benjamin Muller
CONSERVATION SCIENTIST
Dr Benjamin Muller has over 12 years field experience in conservation, wildlife biology, and research projects. His range of field expertise include acoustic ecology, behavioural ecology, and long-term field monitoring; with experience in fundraising, policy guidance, and developing grant applications. Prior to joining the PFW team, Ben was working in Toamasina, Madagascar, as a program coordinator for The Madagascar Fauna and Flora Group, where he lead his team in developing and implementing a long term management program of targeted invasive species.

Sophie Buckman
CREATIVE OPERATIONS SPECIALIST
Originally from the UK, Sophie Buckman lived and worked in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania for 20 years. During her career, she contributed to a wide range of organisations, including NGOs, film production companies, community groups, and emergency response services, gaining extensive experience in logistics, event management, and creative design. Since relocating to Australia in 2020, Sophie has brought her multi-disciplinary expertise to People For Wildlife, where she oversees administration, logistics, creative/graphic design and communications. She plays a key role in keeping operations running smoothly and fostering connections with local communities to support PFW's initiatives.

Warren Strevens
CONSERVATION LAND MANAGER
Having lived and worked across Cape York Peninsula for more than 25 years, Warren Strevens brings extensive experience and invaluable local knowledge to the PFW team. He spent 10 years as ranger coordinator for the NPARC/Apudthama land and sea ranger program, gaining extensive experience in operational planning, land management and wildlife protection, and an unequalled understanding of the opportunities and challenges we face daily on the Apudthama landscape. Warren also helped establish the Western Cape Turtle Threat and Abatement Alliance and has developed monitoring programs for flatback, green, hawksbill, olive ridley and freshwater turtles across Cape York.

Joshua Morris
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & NATURE-BASED BUSINESS OFFICER
Joshua is a Koongurrukun man from the Northern Territory. Passionate about empowering First Nations communities and young people, he brings experience in youth support, cultural programs, and advocacy. Joshua also serves as Co-Chair of NAPCAN’s Youth Advisory Council, leading initiatives that strengthen community programs, cultural engagement, and opportunities for young people.

Sebong Sibanda
FARM OPERATIONS MANAGER
Sebong is from Esigodini, Zimbabwe, and has been instrumental in setting up our project headquarters. Since the start, she has supported the coordination of programs on the ground, bringing local insight, organisation, and a hands-on approach to ensuring our initiatives meet community needs.

Jonathan Sibanda
ANIMAL HUSBANDRY MANAGER
Jonathan has been instrumental in the startup of our operations in Esigodini, Zimbabwe. He has contributed to establishing our HQ and supporting program delivery, bringing practical experience, community knowledge, and expertise in animal husbandry to help our initiatives run smoothly and support sustainable local practices.

Givemore Ncube
WILDLIFE SUPPORT RANGER
Givemore is a dedicated ranger at Devils Gorge, and has recently mastered iPad data entry. He spends his nights on anti-poaching patrols and days logging wildlife sightings.

Ethan Moyo
VISITOR GUIDE & RANGER
Ethan enjoys leading small tour groups through Devils Gorge, sharing his knowledge of wildlife and conservation. He logs sightings, guides visitors safely, and helps them connect with the reserve’s natural beauty.

Simon Munsaka
CONSERVATION OFFICER
Simon brings years of experience to Devils Gorge, mentoring younger rangers while patrolling the reserve. He helps remove snares, monitor wildlife, and ensure every operation runs smoothly.

Lashwet Chuma
RANGER
Lashwet combines sharp instincts with patience, helping dismantle snares across the reserve. He’s passionate about conservation and enjoys learning new data tools to better protect Devils Gorge.

Shamiso Mwembe
COMMUNITY CONSERVATIONIST
Shamiso connects Devils Gorge with local communities, educating people and neighbors about conservation. She helps monitor wildlife, supports patrols, and ensures everyone understands the importance of protecting the reserve.

Linos Ncube
DEVILS GORGE Ranger
Linos is a proud guardian of Devils Gorge, patrolling the reserve with vigilance and courage. Skilled in anti-poaching operations, he removes snares, apprehends illegal fishermen, and protects wildlife with unwavering dedication.

Takesure Munkombwe
ANTI POACHING SCOUT
Takesure takes pride in keeping the Gwai River safe, removing illegal fishing nets and patrolling diligently. He protects wildlife and helps ensure Devils Gorge remains a sanctuary for all its animals.

Abide Mumpande
DEVILS GORGE Ranger
Abide is a thoughtful and dependable ranger at Devils Gorge, supporting patrols and helping colleagues whenever needed. He keeps a close eye on wildlife and ensures the reserve is safe and welcoming for all.

Abiton Munkali
RANGER
Abiton leads anti-poaching patrols deep into the bush, often returning with stories of elephant sightings. He’s recently started using apps to log data and track animal movements.

Mind Shoko
RANGER
Mind is often found on early morning patrols, tracking fresh signs of wildlife. He’s committed to removing snares and is enthusiastic about improving his skills with conservation technology.

Oscar Mumpande
RIVER PATROL OFFICER
Oscar patrols the Gwai River by boat, removing illegal fishing nets and tracking wildlife. He takes pride in protecting his home.

Simple Mudenda
RIVER PATROL OFFICER
Simple is known for his calm approach when apprehending illegal fishermen. When not on the river, he carefully records wildlife sightings and continues building his digital skills.

Dilys Roe
EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBER
An internationally recognised expert on biodiversity and development, Dilys Roe has over 25 years of experience working at the interface of policy, research, and practice. Her passions are wildlife, biodiversity conservation, and justice and equity. She strives to expand understanding of sustainability to include issues around animal welfare and human health as well as the conventional ecological, economic, and social dimensions. Dilys is chair of the IUCN Sustainable Use and Livelihoods Specialist Group (SULi), a network of over 300 experts in wildlife management and sustainable use. She is also Chair of the Collaborative Partnership on Sustainable Wildlife Management; a member of the UK government Darwin Expert Committee (DEC) and Illegal Wildlife Trade Advisory Group; and the Scottish First Minister’s Environment Council.

Amanda Deans
EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBER
Mandy Deans has many years managerial experience in both commercial and not-for-profit organisations. With skills including strategic planning, risk assessment, marketing, facilitation and economic and business development and event management, Mandy now mentors those wishing to become Trustees in not-for-profits. As a Trustee for Uplift In Kind and the Aircraft Owner’s and Pilot’s Association in New Zealand, she continues this pro bono work in the aviation sector.

John E. Ryan
EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBER
John Ryan, based in Victoria, is a retired accountant with decades of financial expertise. He now serves on the executive board of PFW managing the organisation’s accounts and ensuring financial transparency. Combining his professional skills with a passion for travel, John helps guide strategic decisions while keeping operations financially strong, supporting the charity’s mission to protect to preserve habitats for future generations.
