My Placement with IMPACT Madagascar: A Journey of Learning and Conservation
By Iyanuoluwa Shittu
23 NOVEMBER 2024
PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE AUTHOR
This article was produced as part of the Global Diversity Foundation’s Darwin Initiative-funded project “Mentoring GEN Fellows to incubate Global South biodiversity-livelihoods initiatives”. Through the project, we coordinate a programme to support grassroots conservation organisations in the Global South in welcoming and overseeing Masters’ students from UK research institutions as organisational interns. This offers the organisation support through the production of relevant research and communications outputs and supports the Master’s students by offering them the opportunity to discover grassroots conservation realities in the Global South and conduct research for their MSc theses.
The following article is by Iyanuoluwa Shittu, an MSc Conservation Leadership student at the University of Cambridge, United Kingdom. She interned at IMPACT Madagascar in Madagascar. IMPACT Madagascar’s mission is to work with the people of Madagascar to provide solutions for the problems of deforestation, pollution, and poverty. IMPACT Madagascar’s Founder and Member of the Board of Directors Josia Razafindramanana is a member of the Global Environments Network who participated in our Conservation & Communities Fellowship in 2024.
Disclaimer: This article reflects the voice and opinions of the author and does not represent the Global Diversity Foundation. The views expressed herein are solely those of the author mentioned and should be interpreted as such.
“I am pleased to let you know that you have been selected for placement with IMPACT Madagascar with support from the Global Diversity Foundation.” The joy and gratitude I felt upon reading that email was indescribable. It was not just an opportunity—it was a dream come true.
As a student of the Conservation Leadership course, this placement represented a significant milestone in my journey. It was a chance to transition from the theoretical frameworks learned in class to real-world applications, where conservation efforts come alive in the field. Thanks to the generous funding from the Global Diversity Foundation (GDF), I was able to join IMPACT Madagascar and contribute to their mission of sustainable growth.
Arriving in Madagascar: A Land of Surprises and Warm Welcomes
I arrived in Madagascar in June, expecting the warm, sunny weather typical of Africa. To my surprise, I was greeted by a chilly breeze—Madagascar, it turns out, has a winter season too! I was warmly welcomed at the airport by the IMPACT Madagascar chauffeur, who, despite the language barrier, made me feel comfortable and at ease. My initial days at IMPACT Madagascar were spent getting to know the team, who introduced me to the vibrant city of Antananarivo. I was also shown to my lodge, conveniently located near the office, where I would spend the next few months.
My first task was to dive into IMPACT Madagascar’s reports from the past four years. This allowed me to familiarise myself with the organisation’s work and understand the challenges and successes they have encountered over time. The learning curve was steep, but it set the stage for the meaningful work ahead.
Exploring Madagascar: Lemurs Park and Beyond
Madagascar is renowned for its unique biodiversity, and one of the highlights of my stay was a visit to Lemurs Park, which is home to seven species of lemurs. My attempts to visit the park were initially thwarted by transportation challenges. However, when I expressed my interest to the IMPACT Madagascar board, they quickly arranged for me to visit.
Visiting Lemurs Park was a transformative experience. Guided by a knowledgeable tour guide, I was immersed in the diverse habitats that these fascinating primates call home. Watching the lemurs up close—observing their playful antics and social interactions—was surreal. It was a vivid reminder of the critical importance of conservation efforts in preserving Madagascar’s rich biodiversity. The sight of baby Baobab trees growing in the park was another highlight that left me in awe of the island’s natural beauty. This visit deepened my commitment to conservation and reinforced the essential role that community involvement plays in protecting these endangered species.
Working with IMPACT Madagascar: A Collaborative and Supportive Environment
One of the most rewarding aspects of my placement was working with the dedicated team at IMPACT Madagascar. Despite the language barrier—Malagasy being the national language and Google Translate often providing inaccurate translations—I was fortunate to have colleagues who were incredibly supportive and caring. They patiently taught me essential phrases in Malagasy, like “Salam” for good morning, “Veloma” for goodbye, and “Sakafo” for food. These small but significant gestures made me feel more integrated and capable of navigating daily life in Madagascar.
The team’s passion for conservation and community development was truly inspiring. From day one, I was treated as a valued member of the team. The collaborative spirit and the willingness to share knowledge and skills were instrumental in enhancing my understanding of effective conservation strategies and internal communication within the organisation. I am profoundly grateful to GDF for providing this opportunity to work alongside such an amazing group of people. This experience not only expanded my professional skills but also enriched my personal growth, leaving a lasting impression that I will carry with me throughout my career.
Field Visits: Witnessing the Impact of Conservation Efforts
As part of my research, I conducted an external communications survey in two communities where IMPACT Madagascar operates. Travelling to these communities was an adventure in itself—I was taken by boat, allowing me to experience the stunning landscapes of Madagascar from a unique perspective. The visits were both enlightening and humbling. They provided a firsthand look at how IMPACT Madagascar’s initiatives are positively affecting local communities.
The level of engagement from the community members was heartwarming. When called for meetings to discuss my survey, they showed up with enthusiasm and a willingness to participate. Their passion for conservation was evident, and their involvement underscored the importance of grassroots engagement in the success of conservation projects.
Conclusion: A Transformative Experience
My placement with IMPACT Madagascar has been a journey of learning, growth and profound realisation. This placement not only allowed me to apply the knowledge gained in my Conservation Leadership course but also gave me a deeper understanding of the vital connection between conservation and community development. The people I met, the places I visited, and the work I was involved in have all contributed to a richer, more nuanced perspective on conservation.
As I reflect on my time in Madagascar, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and determination. Together, with organisations like IMPACT Madagascar and the Global Diversity Foundation, we can make a tangible difference. We can ensure a sustainable future for Madagascar’s unique ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.
Once again, I extend my heartfelt thanks to the Global Diversity Foundation for making this transformative experience possible. This journey has been one of the most enriching chapters of my life, and I am excited to continue contributing to the cause of conservation.
