Natalie Dumbril

Born and living in England I have always dreamt of making a difference in Africa. I have studied and followed a career in the Hospitality Management and Human Resources fields; spending some time living and working in Canada. With a passion for yoga and a recent teaching qualification in this discipline from a month studying abroad, I have a view of mindful living and compassion for all life. I have always respected the greatness of elephants. Visiting an elephant sanctuary nearly 10 years ago my soul and emotions were rocked by their plight. Since 2013 my world view has expanded and dived into elephant conservation. Seeking a voice for them I set up the social media community page ‘Elephant Champion’ last year. Every single day since I have educated myself and share insights on the wonderful organisations across the globe dedicating heart and soul to save the elephants via anti-poaching initiatives, human:elephant conflict mitigation and raising orphaned elephants. I am on a path for life to help however I can to protect these sentient beings. There is liberation in activism via marching the streets of London dressed as an elephant as part of the Global Marches, fostering my own little herd of orphaned African elephants, outreach in communities, raising sponsorship and volunteering. We are all impacting the very ecosystems we need to survive and the dangers of extinction to the majestic gentle giants, “the gardeners of many ecosystems”, are very real. The time to make a difference is NOW. It is an absolute privilege and blessing for me to join this inspiring all female team for part of this epic expedition, to be able to show my gratitude to the conservation heroes I have admired virtually and have an opportunity for connection with the local communities. It will be my first time on African soil (she says beaming) and I can’t wait for my bare feet to touch the diverse soil that has been walked by the elephants for millions of years. My heart is there already!