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During 2024, Dolphin Energy partnered with the Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund to enhance the Chairman’s Award within our Small Grants Programme, focusing on supporting endangered flora and fauna.
The projects chosen by our Advisory Board are selected based on their impact, scalability, contributions to species programs, and career development opportunities. We place a strong emphasis on essential conservation skills, such as community engagement and stakeholder collaboration.
This International Women’s Day, we proudly celebrate the invaluable contributions of women in conservation, with our founding Managing Director, H.E. Razan Al Mubarak, at the forefront. For over 20 years, Razan has been instrumental in guiding the United Arab Emirates toward a sustainable future, spearheading progressive initiatives in environmental protection, species conservation, and climate action on a global scale. Razan is passionate about nurturing the next generation of female conservationists, believing they play an essential role in enhancing our understanding of ecosystems and biodiversity.
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However, there is a lack of Indigenous data on the climate environment[1], meaning that Indigenous Peoples’ Climate Contributions are not accurately captured or reflected in international climate discourse and decision making.
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The Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund (MBZ Fund) reaffirms its commitment to bird conservation, recognising the pivotal role they play in ecological balance and the overall well-being of ecosystems. Birds, as indicators of environmental health, are vital pollinators, nutrient recyclers, and natural pest controllers, contributing to a sustainable and thriving planet.
As a woman in conservation, Gina Della Togna, a member of the Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund Advisory Board, has navigated numerous stereotypes throughout her journey. An exceptional researcher and conservationist, she serves as the Executive Director of the Amphibian Survival Alliance and is also a Research Associate at the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute. We had the opportunity to catch up with her to learn more about her inspiring conservation journey and discuss the latest MBZ Fund Dolphin Energy Chairman’s Award, focusing on the Axolotl.
Editor: Could you share a little about your background and journey?
Today is a family affair, which perfectly encapsulates the Fund’s philosophy. Meet 13-year-old Mahra Al Mazrouei, a close relative of Salima Raai, the first employee of the Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund. Mahra has a passion for animals, a curious mind, and a deep admiration for her favorite aunt and the vital work she has been doing to protect animals worldwide. In her eyes, Salima wears a superhero cape to work. Let’s find out more about her thoughts, inspirations and goals as she interviews Aunty Salima.
Mahra Al Mazrouei (MA): I know you as Aunty Salima, but not everyone else is lucky enough to know you like I do. Could you share who you are and what amazing work you do?
The Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund (MBZF) is reaffirming its dedication to amphibian conservation worldwide, recognising the role of frogs, salamanders and caecilians as keystone species and vital indicators of ecosystem health. Amphibians serve as both predator and prey, transferring massive amounts of energy within ecosystems, and helping to control insect populations that damage crops and transmit diseases. As sentinel species, they are highly sensitive to environmental changes, making them crucial barometers of ecosystem stability. When frogs and other amphibian species are in trouble, it is a warning sign that the entire ecosystem is in danger.
The journey of the Mohamed bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund began with Her Excellency Razan Al Mubarak, whose tireless dedication over two decades to preserving endangered species and promoting environmental conservation has been truly inspiring. Building on her legacy, we also honour other notable women, including Dhuha Albeshr, a sailor and conservation student, Khawla Al-Shehhi, a diving instructor and marine researcher, and Dr Hind Al Amri, a Marine Biodiversity Conservation Specialist, all united in their goal of ensuring a sustainable environment for future generations.
Through their achievements, we see how Emirati women are shaping the future by merging scientific excellence with the preservation of our environmental and cultural heritage. In this esteemed celebration, the MBZF reaffirms the vital role of women in driving progress and sustainability, honouring their contributions that inspire future generations to reach even greater heights.