Who we are
Amakali Conservation Trust e.V. is a non-profit organisation registered in Germany. We explicitly function to promote science and research, nature conservation, international understanding and development.
If you would like to support our efforts, donations to Amakali Conservation Trust e.V. are tax-deductible in Germany.
We envision a world of resilient landscapes where nature and people thrive. To achieve this, we catalyse and support conservation efforts that strengthen ecosystems, connecting humans and wildlife.
Amakali Conservation Trust is committed to science-based, ethical and inclusive conservation activities, grounded in transparency and respect. Through an equity-centred approach, we work with communities, land owners and wildlife managers to protect biodiversity and foster meaningful and positive connections between people and nature.
The faces behind Amakali
Annika
Saunders
International Journalist, Horse-Safari Guide and Nature Enthusiast
Senior Field Guide and Ecological Monitor at one of Africa's largest private reserves
Just as with an animal herd our strength lies in our numbers. There are many people and friends working together for the same cause. In addition, we are proudly supported by Roofless Productions GbR.
If you would like to join our mission, please email info@amakali.org
Our story
2014-2016
2019
2022
2025
Max travels to Namibia for his first conservation placement, where he joins Kleopas and Christopher, two passionate young Namibians who protect rhinos and lead wildlife excursions. Sitting around the campfire, they dream of a future where people and nature can coexist in harmony. This was the moment when the idea of founding a dedicated conservation NGO was born. Tragically, just two years later, Christopher passed away suddenly, leaving Kleopas, Max and their shared dreams behind.
Freya and Max meet while studying International Nature Conservation and move to New Zealand a year later. While working together in Abel Tasman National Park, they quickly form a strong bond over their shared vision of protecting wilderness and wildlife, as well as supporting community-based projects.
Freya and Max found an organisation to act as a service provider for international conservation and research activities. As a tribute to the late Christopher Amakali, they name the organisation 'Amakali'.
The logo features an aloe plant, a robust succulent used in a variety of indigenous and traditional remedies.
Interest in the organisation grows over the years along with meaningful connections. With the support of passionate friends and professionals, Amakali has since become a not-for-profit organisation.
The Amakali Conservation Trust e.V. is committed to continuing Christopher’s legacy of protecting and restoring wildlife, or in his words, 'making a difference'.
Our experience
At Amakali, we blend different professional backgrounds and cultures. We bring together a variety of viewpoints from the world of nature conservation, drawing on our international experience of working with governments, NGOs and the private sector, as well as in the areas of ecotourism, business development, communications and the media. Our knowledge and skills, coupled with our ability to adapt and make a positive impact, set us apart.
Scientific research &
monitoring
Protection &
restoration
Education &
training
Journalism & communication
We have carried out multiple research projects on ecological and socio-economic issues in different geographies, making use of innovative methodologies, equipment, and technologies.
We have supported various conservation and restoration initiatives working with local communities on threatened species, critical habitats and alternative livelihoods.
We have provided different types of presentations, educational and capacity-building trainings, sharing knowledge and practical skills, as well as translating science to the general public.
We have created and published visually appealing stories about multidimensional environmental topics and regions that are usually under-represented in the global media.