We are continuing our commemoration of Women's History Month by recognizing the extraordinary women of Conservation X Labs who work to disrupt the field of conservation every day. Today, we highlight the inspiring work of Tatjana Rosen, who leads our field conservation efforts in the Middle East as part of our Central Asia Wildcat Program.
This program nurtures regional cooperation to advance the conservation of imperiled Central Asia flagship mammal species – the Persian Leopard and Snow Leopard, across Kyrgzstan, Kazakhstan, and Turkmenistan.
Through this, and other direct place-based conservation initiatives, we extend our impact and leverage technology to monitor progress towards our goals. Partners in this project include the National Geographic Society, Fondation Segre, and CEPF, amplifying our collective efforts in preserving biodiversity.
Learn more about Tanya’s experiences, reflections, and motivations with us:
What inspired you to pursue a career in conservation?
What inspired me to pursue a career is the healing power of nature and especially landscapes that large carnivores call home. I was reeling from being caught in a very traumatic terror attack and being in nature not only helped me, but also helped me understand that by protecting it we can help heal wounds that political conflicts create.
Was there a woman that inspired you to pursue a career in conservation, and how did they influence you?
Early in my career I worked with Shannon Podruzny, a bear biologist with the USGS Interagency Grizzly Bear Study Team. She taught me all of the nuts and bolts of bear research in Yellowstone and working in remote field conditions. Working with her gave me the confidence and courage to eventually lead similar work in Central Asia.
What advice would you give to other women interested in pursuing a career in conservation?
Follow your heart, your love for the wild and surround yourself with a supportive community of friends and colleagues.
Every day, we honor Tanya and the countless women like her who are shaping the future of conservation.
Stay tuned for more inspiring features next week!
