Mapping the Future: Conservation, Community, and Tech with Véro Couttee-Jenkins

In this episode, we unravel the complexities of conservation work with Véronique Couttee-Jenkins, a dedicated biologist from Mauritius. Véronique founded organisations 'AfriTech Fellowship' and 'Geospatial Equity Tech’ to help underrepresented and marginalised communities get involved in STEAM. She shares her experiences navigating the challenges of protecting biodiversity in Mauritius and beyond, shedding light on the often-overlooked unintended consequences of conservation efforts. We discuss the power dynamics in global conservation, the struggle to secure funding, and the balance between technology and traditional methods in protecting our planet. From the controversial impact of armed guards funded by major organizations to the critical role of inclusive and ethical conservation practices, this conversation dives deep into the realities of safeguarding nature. Join us as we challenge the illusion that all conservation efforts are universally positive, exploring how nuanced approaches and true community involvement are key to making meaningful change.

(00:01:40) Véro's Journey From Mauritius to the US

(00:11:04) Pursuing Higher Education in the US and New Zealand

(00:14:35) Master's Program in Biodiversity Conservation and Policymaking

(00:20:38) New Zealand's Predator Free 2050 Plan

(00:24:26) Fellowship Experience with the National Audubon Society

(00:29:01) Elevating Unheard Voices and Merging Science with Community Stories

(00:41:11) Empowering Women as Critical Thinkers of Spatial Data

(00:50:34) WWF Funding Controversy and Human-Environment Relationship

(00:51:53) Starting an NGO to Empower Women in the Community

(01:00:21) Storytelling and Securing Funding for Nonprofit Work

(01:04:32) The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Conservation

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