My Journey with IMPACT Madagascar
Iyanuoluwa Shittu
Visit to the field -Ambomadiro Community
Introduction
Embarking on my professional placement with IMPACT Madagascar has been an enriching and transformative experience. From engaging with dedicated staff to exploring Madagascar’s unique biodiversity, every moment has deepened my appreciation for conservation efforts. This blog post chronicles my journey, highlighting my visits to Lemurs Park, the welcoming team at IMPACT Madagascar, and field visits to Madiromirafy and Ambodimadiro.
Bonding with the children in the Ambomadiro Community.
Bonding with office staff at IMPACT Madagascar, Antananarivo
Experiencing Lemurs Park
Visit to Lemurs Park
One of the highlights of my placement was visiting Lemurs Park, home to seven species of lemurs. Walking through the park, I was captivated by the diverse habitats and the remarkable conservation efforts in place to protect these fascinating primates.
Seeing the lemurs up close was a surreal experience. Their playful antics and unique behaviors underscored the importance of preserving Madagascar's rich biodiversity. This visit reinforced my commitment to conservation and the necessity of community involvement in protecting these endangered species.
Up close and personal with a black and white ruffed lemur!
Working with a Friendly Team
First day at work
The staff at IMPACT Madagascar were incredibly welcoming and supportive. From day one, I felt like a valued member of the team. Their passion for conservation and community development is truly inspiring. Working alongside such a dedicated group of individuals has been a rewarding experience.
The collaborative spirit and willingness to share knowledge and skills have greatly enhanced my understanding of effective conservation strategies and internal communication within the organization.
Field Visits to Madiromirafy and Ambodimadiro
My field visits to Madiromirafy and Ambodimadiro were both enlightening and humbling. These visits allowed me to witness firsthand the impact of IMPACT Madagascar’s initiatives on local communities.
In Madiromirafy and Ambodimadiro, I observed community meetings where villagers actively participated in discussions on external communication. The enthusiasm and commitment of the community members were heartening and demonstrated the importance of local engagement in conservation efforts.
She wants to come to Cambridge someday!
Meeting some of the staff
Watering some seedlings of forest trees for reforestation
Conclusion
My placement with IMPACT Madagascar has been an invaluable journey of learning, growth, and inspiration. From the awe-inspiring Lemurs Park to the supportive team and impactful field visits, every experience has reinforced my dedication to conservation. Working with IMPACT Madagascar has not only expanded my professional skills but also deepened my understanding of the vital connection between conservation and community development.
A pose with the IMPACT Madagascar Mug
Celebrating the Madagascar National Day with IMPACT Madagascar Staff
A Malagasy Menu board - my favorite was Akoho Sauce (Chiken sauce) and sometimes Attiny Akoho (Chicken Gizard and liver).
(I discovered Lelan ‘omby (Cow tongue) late but loved it!)
As I reflect on my time here, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to such meaningful work. I look forward to continuing my journey in conservation, equipped with the knowledge and experiences gained from my time with IMPACT Madagascar. Together, we can make a difference and ensure a sustainable future for Madagascar’s unique ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.
About Iyanu
Iyanuoluwa Moyinoluwa Shittu is a dedicated conservation educationist with over two years of field experience, known for her community outreach and earning the nickname “yam girl” after being gifted 80 tubers of yam for her efforts in crowdfunding and constructing a borehole.
Born and raised in Nigeria, she developed a passion for the Sustainable Development Goals during university, which led to her lifelong commitment to biodiversity conservation and mentoring future African conservationists.
She holds a Master's in Conservation Leadership from the University of Cambridge. Outside of work, Iyanuoluwa enjoys internet surfing and playing percussion instruments, drawing inspiration from music and nature. She is committed to raising awareness about forest and wildlife conservation in Nigeria and Africa.