article / 8 July 2024

It wouldn't be possible without WiCT & Arm

Despite my background in political ecology, I never wanted the science part of my degree to be neglected. When I joined the Nelson Mandela Institution of Science and Technology, I decided to research on the carbon sequestration and carbon footprint of hardwood timber. During my tenure, I secured a spot in the Women in Conservation Technology (WiCT) program, where I gained extensive knowledge, including the use of camera traps, human wildlife mitigation tech tools, how to use dogs in protection, earth ranger, data analysis tools, remote sensing, and GIS etc.

 

Although I am an experienced political ecologist, I wasn't an early-career woman in the field of conservation technology. I joined the program because I was new to this area and saw it as the best opportunity to explore and learn more about conservation technology. This opportunity has been invaluable for my growth and understanding in the field.

I now use many of the techniques I gained through the program, such as data collection and analysis tools like Kobo, in my work and research. I also use GIS tools to assess various geographical information such as slope, vegetation cover, elevation, and location. With the support of ARM, I secured funds to help collect data for my pending research objective. As a self-funded student, I faced challenges in collecting carbon footprint data due to limited funds. However, through this program, I received the necessary funding from ARM to complete my research.

I hope my story inspires other women in the field to attend the Women in Conservation Technology program. This program has been a significant stepping stone in my career, providing me with the skills and support needed to excel in conservation technology.

 

 


Frank van der Most
@Frank_van_der_Most  | He, him
RubberBootsData
Field data app developer, with an interest in funding and finance
Group Curator
Involvement level 3
Variety Hour Regular
Poster level 3
Commenter level 3

What an interesting story, Fatma! 

I wonder how you went about facing those challenges with collecting carbon footprint data, before you got the support of ARM? I mean, was it completely impossible without funding? Or did you find ways to get at least some data without funding?

Also, how did you find ARM, and how did you acquire their support?

Add another post

Want to share your own conservation tech experiences and expertise with our growing global community? Login or register to start posting!