The Foundation for the Conservation of Biodiversity (BIOFUND) held the closing event of the 8th edition of the Mozambique Conservation Leadership Programme (PLCM) internship scheme in Beira on 25 and 26 August. The event brought together around 80 participants, including current interns, programme alumni, institutional partners, and representatives from host organizations such as the Mozambican Recycling Association (AMOR) and the Levas Flor Foundation.

Opening the event, BIOFUND’s Director of Programmes, Alexandra Jorge, reflected on the programmes evolution and its growing contribution to developing the next generation of conservation professionals in Mozambique. She highlighted that, over eight editions, the programme has expanded both on a scale and in the diversity of academic and professional backgrounds represented among participants. According to Alexandra Jorge, this evolution demonstrates that biodiversity conservation is a cross-cutting challenge that requires expertise from a wide range of disciplines to achieve sustainable and impactful solutions.

Young Professionals Share Learning Journeys and Career Pathways

A key highlight of the event was the presentation of internship experiences by participants from the programmes 8th edition. The interns showcased the knowledge, skills, and practical experience gained while working in different organizations and fields. Their backgrounds ranged from civil engineering and accounting to biology and other disciplines, reflecting the increasingly multidisciplinary nature of the conservation sector.

Throughout the presentations, one message emerged consistently: biodiversity conservation is not solely the responsibility of biologists and ecologists. It also depends on professionals from diverse fields whose knowledge and expertise contribute to the sustainable management of conservation areas and the socio-economic development of local communities.

The programme also featured a session dedicated to career development and professional transitions, where former PLCM beneficiaries shared how their participation in the programme influenced their career trajectories and opened new professional opportunities.

“Today, I have the privilege of working in conservation and building my career as a conservation biologist. This achievement is largely the result of the learning experience and networking opportunities provided by the PLCM. The programme gave me the foundation to take my first professional steps in this field,” said Sofia Nhalungo, Field Technician at Gorongosa National Park.

From Internship Experience to Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurship was also highlighted as an important pathway for creating employment opportunities and developing innovative solutions to environmental and social challenges. Former PLCM interns who have established their own businesses shared their experiences, demonstrating the programmes impact beyond traditional employment outcomes.

“The knowledge, skills, and professional networks developed during the internship provide valuable tools for unlocking new opportunities and encouraging greater youth participation in the conservation sector,” said Inocente Salvador, Founder of AGRO-MMICO.

During the event, the National Employment Institute (INEP), a strategic partner of BIOFUND, presented information on funding opportunities and support mechanisms available to young professionals and entrepreneurs across Mozambique, reinforcing its commitment to youth employability and economic empowerment.

Building a Community of Conservation Leaders

The event culminated in the official establishment of the PLCM Alumni Network, including the election of regional focal points and the definition of guiding principles for its operation. The network was created to strengthen connections between former and current participants, facilitate knowledge exchange, foster collaboration opportunities, and build a vibrant community of young professionals committed to biodiversity conservation in Mozambique.

Participants also learned from the experience of YCAC MOZ in youth mobilization, which served as an inspiration and reference point for the formal launch of the Alumni Network.

In her closing remarks, Alexandra Jorge encouraged participants to view their learning journeys as long-term investments in personal and professional growth. She challenged them to reflect on the positive impact they can generate within their institutions and communities by applying the knowledge, skills, and values acquired throughout the programme.

The Mozambique Conservation Leadership Programme (PLCM) is implemented by BIOFUND in partnership with the National Administration for Conservation Areas (ANAC) and the National Employment Institute (INEP), with financial support from the Swedish Government through the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA).