James Akedi: Speaking Up
We’re thrilled to share an EarthCorps Yearbook entry from James Akedi! James was an international corps member in 2002. He shares about trying new things, learning important skills, and speaking up for what you believe in.
What did you learn at EarthCorps?
I learned a lot at EarthCorps. I learned about environmental restoration, leadership, and teamwork. I also learned about myself and my capabilities.
Here are some of the specific things I learned at EarthCorps:
Environmental restoration: I learned about the different methods of environmental restoration, such as invasive species removal, native plant installation, and stream bank stabilization. I also learned about the importance of environmental restoration and how it can help to improve the health of our planet.
Leadership: I learned about the different leadership styles and how to be an effective leader. I also learned how to build and motivate teams and how to solve problems.
Teamwork: I learned the importance of teamwork and how to work effectively with others. I also learned how to communicate effectively and how to resolve conflict.
About myself: I learned about my own strengths and weaknesses. I also learned that I am capable of more than I ever thought possible.
I am so grateful for the opportunity to have worked with EarthCorps. It was an amazing experience that taught me so much about myself and the world around me. I am proud of the work that I did, and I know that I made a difference.
I am excited to continue my work in the environmental field. I know that there is still so much work to be done, but I am confident that we can make a difference. With your help, we can create a better future for our planet.
What is a favorite memory from being at EarthCorps?
My favorite memory at EarthCorps is when I was given the privilege and honor to make a speech on behalf of the corps members at the annual fundraising dinner. I was so nervous, but I knew that this was my chance to share my story and to thank everyone who had supported Earth Corps.
I stood up at the podium and looked out at the sea of faces. There were donors, volunteers, staff, and other corps members. I took a deep breath and began to speak.
“I am so grateful to be here tonight,” I said. “I never thought that I would be standing here, giving a speech in front of so many people. But I am here because of EarthCorps.”
I finished my speech to a standing ovation. I was so proud of myself for speaking up and representing my fellow corps members. I knew that I had made a difference, and I was excited to continue my work with Earth Corps.
What are you doing now?
I am currently the CEO at The Ol Bolosat Conservancy in Nyandarua County, Kenya.
The Ol Bolosat Conservancy is a non-profit organization founded in 2015 by community members around Lake Ol Bolosat. The Ol Bolosat Conservancy’s work is focused primarily on environmental conservation, wildlife protection, and community empowerment. We have a mission to promote sustainable practices that enhance biodiversity and improve the well-being of communities living in and around the Lake Olbolosat ecosystem. Our vision is to inspire people to value wildlife and nature in Kenya.
Our landscape areas span the richest region of Hippo diversity around Mt. Kenya and comprise one of Kenya’s largest percentages of the Hippo population. Hippo conservation is, therefore, a top priority for us. Hippos are threatened by habitat loss, hunting, and pollution. We work with local communities to raise awareness about the importance of hippos in the ecosystem and to mitigate human-wildlife conflict. We also support research on hippo behavior, ecology, and conservation.
We seek to sustain the natural environment to benefit people and wildlife. Thus as a conservancy, we are keenly aware of the need to preserve our natural resources and promote sustainability in Kenya.
The Yearbook is open to everyone in the EarthCorps community. We’d love for you to share your story with us!