Varekova will aid in efforts to raise awareness and funds to support initiatives focused on conserving large landscapes, protecting endangered species, and empowering local communities working in AWF's nine African Heartlands; these vast areas of land are essential to conservation due to an unmatched concentration of wildlife and potential to sustain viable populations for the future.
“I made frequent trips to Africa growing up and quickly fell in love with the continent,” Varekova commented. “On my last trip, I was able to experience AWF's work and accomplishments firsthand, which made me realise how much I wanted to be involved with this foundation and help raise their profile in the US. I truly respect and value their mission, philosophy, work ethic, and am excited to get on the ground to begin my work.”
As one of her first projects, Veronica will travel to Rwanda in late October to liaise with conservationists working in the forested habitat surrounding the Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge. This community-owned lodge was created as part of AWF's Conservation Enterprise program; it provides the community with economic incentives to conserve their lands and treat wildlife not as a threat to their livelihoods, but as a boon to their prosperity.
Another newly appointed AWF Goodwill Ambassador and good friend, Ben Stein, will join Varekova in the hopes to secure a meeting with the President of Rwanda, Paul Kagame, to show appreciation for his country's work in supporting the conservation efforts of AWF.
“We could not be more thrilled to have Veronica involved with the African Wildlife Foundation,” noted Craig Sholley, vice-president for philanthropy and marketing for AWF. “Veronica shares our belief that protecting Africa's wildlife and landscapes is the key to the future economic prosperity of Africa and its people. We are confident that her passion for our mission will create additional awareness of our work.”
For more information, go to www.awf.org
