The Endangered Wildlife Trust turns 50 this year

In 1973, one man had a dream and a talent. He brought animals to life on canvas, but he was determined they also remain in the wild, not only as inspiration but for their roles in upholding the ecosystems on which we depend.

What started as one man’s dream has grown into an unconquerable force in the fight against extinction. Half a century after it was founded, the Endangered Wildlife Trust has achieved immeasurable gains for wildlife conservation. Each staff member, partner, and supporter who has been a part of our journey leaves a legacy of life exponential in impact and reach – each bringing about conservation impact and sowing seeds of inspiration and passion that grow and spread, cultivating conservation leaders, actors, influencers, and changemakers.

Conservation is about our natural heritage, our natural resources, our culture, and our livelihoods. It’s about food and water, and air. It’s about our hearts and souls, being grounded to our one Earth, being passionate and compassionate, and recognising the common good and being fair and just. That is the true essence of who we are as an organisation – we fight not only for species and their habitats but for the fundamental human right to an environment that is not harmful to one’s health and well-being. For us, conserving the planet, its natural assets, and all who live on it is a calling, a privilege, and a way of life, and we are proud to share it with you. The real power for change lies within each of us – in our everyday engagements with people who learn from us, teach us, and join us in our timeless campaign to protect forever, together.

Thank you for playing a critical role in achieving immense and lasting impacts for conservation, and we hope you will stay on board and help us do even more in the 50 years to come.

Click here to read a special message from the EWT’s CEO, Yolan Friedmann

How Cheetahs got their spot in the EWT’s history

Andrew Lowry studied Wildlife Management at Pretoria University and was selected to conduct Cheetah Research in Etosha National Park in 1973 – the first project of the newly founded Endangered Wildlife Trust.