Meet Kanako Tomisawa, Wildlife Madagascar’s first member from Japan!
Kanako’s passion for conservation began as a university student and grew stronger after working on Sumatran tiger conservation in Indonesia. Her journey has taken her to organizations like Species 360 and the Association of Asian Wildlife Conservation, where she’s made significant contributions to species management and education.Here’s what she had to say about her work and what drew her to Wildlife Madagascar.
What do you love most about your work? What brings you the most joy?
I cherish the chance to collaborate with people from around the world, building lasting partnerships that drive conservation success. Together, we find ways to make education programs more impactful, which is incredibly rewarding. Communications allow me to share meaningful conservation stories. It’s a privilege to connect people with the work we do and inspire them to take action.
What sparked your commitment to wildlife and conservation?
My lifelong love for animals was the starting point, but working with Sumatran tigers ignited my true passion for conservation. That experience changed the course of my career.
What is one of your most memorable travel experiences?
Although I haven’t been to Madagascar yet, it’s a dream destination for me. For now, Costa Rica tops my list. Its breathtaking wildlife and landscapes, coupled with the community’s dedication to conservation, are unforgettable.
What inspired you to become a member of Wildlife Madagascar?
The incredible achievements of Debra Erickson and her team are what drew me in. Protecting 25 lemur species in such a short time is nothing short of remarkable, and I wanted to be part of that effort. People have told me that visiting Madagascar is life-changing because of its unique wildlife and the warmth of its people. Supporting Wildlife Madagascar’s critical work to ensure the survival and prosperity of its wildlife is deeply meaningful to me.