In this Reader, we speak with the team at the Sustainable Finance Coalition, who share insights on emerging funding models and practical finance solutions that are reshaping how organizations support and fund their conservation work. They reflect on how the landscape is changing and where new opportunities are emerging.

The entire development sector is changing, and things are moving fast. We’re seeing shifts in everything from global politics to funding flows, and these changes have major implications for conservation efforts across Africa and beyond. Understandably, the situation is overwhelming and confusing, as it’s a struggle just to keep up with daily headlines. There are sleepless nights, constant worry, and uncertainty about what comes next. There is no doubt that we’re facing hard and challenging times. 

Everyone talks about the need for better storytelling in conservation. But too often, we’re told why stories are powerful, without being shown how to tell them. This guide is here to give you the tools, not just the theory, to bring your work to life. 

Conservation leaders frequently prioritize the mission over their own health and wellbeing. Many barely take leave (and are always working even while away!). Others frequently fall sick from exhaustion. However, the ability to lead effectively is deeply connected to one’s physical and mental resilience. In this Reader, Dr Vik Mohan offers valuable insights on how conservation leaders can prioritize their wellbeing.

Conservation organizations are no strangers to navigating unexpected crises - they’ve had to become experts at it. From the rhino and elephant poaching crisis (2012–2014) to COVID-19, and from extreme droughts and floods to locust invasions, they have continually adapted to protect both nature and the communities that depend on it. Alongside these challenges are the localized issues that can quickly escalate into crises. Only the most resilient survive.

For busy leaders and teams, taking a pause to step back from the day-to-day for reflection can feel like a luxury. But it’s often from this vantage point where you can see more clearly, and be better positioned to make plans and priorities for the year ahead.

Don’t let time or money constraints prevent you from marking the year-end in a celebratory way. One of the most inspiring things you can do as a leader is help your team celebrate your accomplishments - big or small. We reached out to our team and the conservation leaders in our network to share ideas they’ve tried, wanted to try, or seen others do for celebrating success. Here’s a list we’re confident has something for everyone!

The end of the year is a time to celebrate your hard work and achievements. However, one process frequently fills many with dread: the annual performance review. For some, it feels reminiscent of the days when they received a report card from school. During these reviews, team members often find out if they’ll receive a raise, a promotion, or a transfer to a different department - or, in some cases, face constructive feedback or consequences for past behavior.

Communications and fundraising are deeply intertwined. In this Reader, we want to make this connection clear and strong while providing ways you can put this into practice.

There is an increasing call for a shift in funder thinking, allowing more autonomy to local teams in decision-making and placing trust in them to decide the best use of resources at any given time. In this Reader, three leaders - Tiana Andriamanana, Patrick Kimani, and Andrew Stein - representing different organizations and geographies share their experiences and make a case for the importance of flexible and unrestricted funding.