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From being a sniper in the Australian special forces and serving and surviving 3 years in the Iraq war to being a world-renowned anti-poaching and environmentalist, Damien Mander's story is one of deep integrity and transformation. After a trip to Africa and seeing first-hand the unjust cruelty and devastation of poaching, Damien liquidated his life savings to establish the International Anti-Poaching Foundation, now known as Akashinga. It's an incredible story with an impact that will last long after Damien is gone. In a world awash in unbodied words and actions. Where manufactured outrage and energy are given over to insignificance. Damien Mander shows us what is possible when we take embodied, heart-based, service-orientated action. No words are necessary. If we truly care about generations to come, there needs to be a shift in awareness away from that of exploiters of our earth to the essential role of guardians. Feelings with Strangers Socials https://www.instagram.com/feelings.with.strangers/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@FeelingswithStrangers Akashinga https://www.akashinga.org/ Donate https://www.akashinga.org/get-involved Documentaries https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WUYQS40I9mw&t=728s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B1if3w7s5t4 Damien's Ted Talk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9FCsyK4aRXQ Socials https://www.instagram.com/damien_mander/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/weareakashinga/ https://x.com/weareakashinga
On a new Wild For Change podcast, we welcome back Damien Mander, environmentalist and founder of Akashinga, the first all-women, anti-poaching organization formerly known as the International Anti-Poaching Foundation. We also welcome Nyaradzo Hoto, a Biodiversity Officer of Akashinga who focuses on research and data analysis collected by the Akashinga rangers. The Akashinga rangers are not only working to protect precious wildlife from poachers, but they are also supporting countless other animal lives through their completely plant-based diet.We'll discuss the uniqueness of Akashinga's plant-based diet and how this also parallels helping to save the Earth as American biologist E.O. Wilson proposed in his book, Half-Earth. Damien and Nyaradzo will share with us how eating a plant-based diet supports our health, the countless lives of animals that are not only part of animal agriculture but the wildlife and the health and stability of our home planet Earth. Damien has been featured in the documentary Game Changers abouteating a plant-based diet and TedX, BBC, and National Geographic.Both Damien and Nyaradzo are two exemplary individuals who embody the spirit of a game-changer.I wanted to include in the show notes three quotes from the podcast that provide insight into how our collective actions affect the planet and all life on Earth:“I already know I'm not responsible for the death of animals. I'm not carrying that weight on my shoulders, on my conscience and that is a powerful thing to be rid of.” Damien Mander on eating a plant-based diet.“For us as humans, we are in a unique position. For the first time in history we are the only species that has the power to determine what level of suffering is acceptable for all other species on the planet. But in having that power as well, we've been trying to play God in a negative way. We've been trying to control everything without realizing what we're doing to our own species. If we really don't start to respect the planet, or treating it like a bloody garbage dump, it's gonna chew us up and spit us out.” Damien Mander“We don't need much space to grow vegetables. As we grow vegetables, we are also supporting the climate exchange. Like taking exchange for fighting for the climate change, because the more we grow plants in the environment, the more we are fighting on the climate change.” Nyaradzo Hoto, on how eating plant-based supports the planetWebsite: http://www.wildforchange.com Twitter: @WildForChange Facebook: /wildforchange Instagram: wildforchange
Today on Change Agents, an IRONCLAD original, Andy Stumpf sits down with former Australian special operations sniper Damien Mander. Today, he is the founder of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation: https://www.iapf.org/ Change Agents is an IRONCLAD original. Subscribe to the podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/change-agents-with-andy-stumpf/id1677415740 Shop IRONCLAD Apparel: https://shop.thisisironclad.com/ Change Agents is an IRONCLAD original. Visit https://www.thisisironclad.com to learn more. Be sure to subscribe to @thisisironclad on YouTube and major social platforms. Follow us on Social - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisisironclad Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/ThisIsIRONCLAD Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisisironclad TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thisisironclad Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://thisisironclad.com/newsletter
"We're quick to try and find bandaid solutions to problems we face, while ignoring a solution that's spent the last 5 billion years evolving, and that is nature. It's the best regulating system we have on this planet."Today's conversation is with Damien Mander. Damien is an activist and founder of the International Anti Poaching Foundation. He has a unique background in that he is a former Australian Royal Navy clearance diver and special ops military sniper. His work has been featured on The Guardian, ABC, National Geographic, Forbes, The Game Changers and was the winner of the 2019 Winsome Constance Kindness Gold Medal, a prestigious international recognition for services to animals and humanity.Video version: https://youtu.be/7Tzylk94WTI The key topics in today's episode:03:30 - Who is Damien Mander06:30 - Different types of poaching09:00 - How poaching works12:00 - Impacting local communities15:00 - Human-animal conflict18:00 - Having hope20:30 - The reduction of poaching29:00 - Conservation on a global scale35:00 - Fully plant based Akashinga rangers40:00 - How dangerous is being a ranger42:00 - Being vegan is "not manly"48:00 - Becoming a ranger50:00 - Words of wisdomResources:Connect with Damien:Website | https://www.iapf.org/ Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/int.anti.poaching.foundation/Instagram | https://www.instagram.com/damien_mander/LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/damienmander/Get 10% Off Four Sigmatic With Code: PLANT10foursigmaticinternational.sjv.io/P0kPPQConnect with me:Instagram | @plant.paradigmYouTube | The Plant ParadigmTwitter | @plantparadigmWebsite | www.theplantparadigm.comSubscribe to the podcast:Apple | Spotify Stay happy,Eat plants,Peace
Damien is an Iraq war veteran who served as a Naval clearance diver and special operations sniper for the Australian Defense Force. He is an environmentalist and founder and CEO of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation. In 2009 while traveling through Africa, he was inspired by the work of rangers and the plight of wildlife. Liquidating his life savings, the International Anti-Poaching Foundation (IAPF) was established as the last line of defense for nature. Over the past decade, the IAPF has scaled to train and support rangers which now help protect over 4 million hectares of the African wilderness. In 2017 IAPF founded ‘Akashinga – Nature Protected by Women', a program that has already grown to over 170 employees, becoming the only group of nature reserves in the world to be protected by women. The goal is to employ 1000 women by 2025, protecting a network of 20 nature reserves, all managed by the IAPF. Damien is the winner of the 2019 Winsome Constance Kindness Gold Medal, a prestigious international recognition for services to animals and humanity. Past recipients include Sir David Attenborough and Dr. Jane Goodall. He was featured in the newly released James Cameron documentary The Game Changers and is now releasing another documentary with James Cameron and National Geographic about his work with the women of Akashinga. To support and give to the Gianna Simone Foundation: http://bit.ly/1GU6few STAY CONNECTED WITH ME: Plant Love cookbook: https://giannasimone.com/checkouts/pl... Website: http://giannasimone.com/ Facebook: http://facebook.com/GiannaSimone Instagram: gsimone - http://instagram.com/gsimone Twitter: http://twitter.com/GiannaSimone1 IMDb: http://imdb.me/GiannaSimone
“In conservation, the lost causes are the best worth fighting for.” This week, Kathy speaks with Damien Mander, the renowned war veteran and founder of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation. In this informative episode, Kathy and Damien discuss:Damien's unique path to animal activism after an extensive military career ultimately led to establishing found the IAPFHow Damien transitioned to a vegan lifestyle in 2012 after realizing that he “ran out of excuses” for not going plant-based sooner: “I was saving some and eating others.”Why nature is the “best self-regulating system” and how IAPF approaches environmental issues through social justice activism, including scholarships and health care reform, in neighboring communitiesAkashinga: Africa's first armed, plant-based, all-women anti-poaching unit whose lives are completely changed by finding their voices and purpose in their workKatana, the newest canine member of IAPF, and the role of working dogs as part of the ranger team in AfricaTo follow the IAPF and stay updated on their work, check out their social media pages here:FacebookInstagramTwitterFind the Akashinga documentary short from National Geographic here.Watch Damien's Ted Talk here.Connect with Kathy Stevens:Facebook: Kathy Stevens, Catskill Animal SanctuaryTwitter: @CASanctuaryBook: Where the Blind Horse SingsWebsite: CASanctuary.orgInstagram: @catskill_animal_sanctuaryYouTube: Catskill Animal SanctuaryTikTok: @CASanctuary
Damien Mander is a man with a particular set of skills, which he is putting to exceptional use in fighting poaching across Africa. Having founded the International Anti-Poaching Foundation and created the "Akashinga" ranger training program, Damien is putting his years of military experience into effect, defending the vulnerable and protecting the future of conservation. Join us as we delve into the world of illegal poaching and how African women are being empowered to be the defenders of their land and wildlife. "Empowering women is the single greatest force for positive change on Earth today." -Damien Mander
Damien Mander is the founder and CEO of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation (IAPF). He is a former Australian Royal Navy clearance diver and a special operations military sniper who became an anti-poaching crusader and an environmental and animal welfare activist. In 2009, while traveling through Africa, he was inspired by the work of rangers and the plight of wildlife. He liquidated his life savings and established the International Anti-Poaching Foundation. Over the past decade, the IAPF has scaled to train and support rangers which now help protect over 20 million acres of African wilderness. In 2017 Damien founded ‘Akashinga - Nature Protected by Women,' an IAPF program that has already grown to over 240 employees with 7 nature reserves in the portfolio. They are the only group of nature reserves in the world to be protected by women. And, these women are changing the game in terms of what it means to fight poaching. Damien was featured in the James Cameron documentary The Game Changers and has now released another documentary with James Cameron and National Geographic about his work with the women of Akashinga – “The Brave One's.” He is a resident of the National Geographic Speakers Bureau, has spoken at the United Nations, is featured in June 2019's National Geographic Magazine, and has been featured three times on 60 Minutes. And, if you haven't seen it, watch his TEDx Talk at the Sidney Oprah House, it's just awesome. It was an honor to spend time with Damien. He is a warrior, a hero, and a man who understands what it means to never stop evolving.
In the 7th episode of the Principles of Change podcast, I discuss the work of the International Anti Poaching Foundation with its founder, Damien Mander. Damien is a former Australian Royal Navy Clearance Diver and Special Operations military sniper who used his life savings and funds to start the International Anti Poaching Foundation, where we find the Akashinga: Africa's first armed, plant-based, all-women anti-poaching unit. In Today's Episode:Intro & Damien's StoryHow the IAPF startedDo confrontations get violent?Are all the rangers really Vegan?How many animals have you saved?What about demilitarisation?How can people help?Damien's Principles of Changehttps://www.iapf.orgDownload this app to help animal sanctuaries and non profits at NO cost to you!Sign up with referral code: SEBALEX https://bit.ly/39rKNDi
Damien grew up on the east coast of Australia, spending most of his life between Melbourne and Sydney. Some would say he lived in the ocean, enjoying free diving and scuba diving. Damien had the opportunity of turning his passion into a career with the Australian Navy, when he became a Naval Clearance Diver. He later served with the Special Operations unit of the Australian Army, an elite brotherhood that thrived on having a mission and purpose. After nine years in the military, Damien knew it was time to move on after experiencing burnout. He travelled along the coast of South America for 11 months feeling lost and hit rock bottom, which was a turning point. Having heard about the conservation effort in Africa, Damien decided to go on a six month African adventure through the southern part of the continent. Damien went to Africa looking for a fight, but he never expected to witness the struggles and challenges rangers faced on the ground. It made him reflect on the reasons for being in Africa and inspired him to do something different with his life. Damien founded the International Anti Poaching Foundation in 2009. At the time, the conversation effort in Africa had become highly militarised, which Damien recognised was not a sustainable strategy within the local indigenous community. Damien utilised one of his greatest strengths, his ability to evolve and created Akashinga, an all female, plant based, anti poaching unit. Akashinga began with just 16 women protecting 90,000 acres of reserves in Zimbabwe. The program has been such a success for conservation and community development, that it has now been scaled to over 300 staff protecting 8 reserves and 1.3 million acres across three countries. National Geographic recently produced a short documentary called "Akashinga: The Brave Ones" which celebrates the impact the program is having for communities, wildlife and the environment. Damien not only raises awareness about his organisation and the plight of African wildlife, but also the link between veganism and conservation. He is a Director of Conservation Guardians and Speaker for National Geographic Live Bureau. In this episode, Damien also shares an insight into the dynamic role of rangers, his path to veganism and advice for people trying to make a difference for animals. https://www.iapf.org/https://www.instagram.com/int.anti.poaching.foundation/https://www.facebook.com/iapf.org/Akashinga: The Braves Ones (Documentary)https://www.iapf.org/the-filmTEDx TalksModern Warrior - https://youtu.be/9FCsyK4aRXQFrom Sniper to Rhino Conservationist - https://youtu.be/PXBjQ7bc6PYSixty MinutesDamien's War - https://youtu.be/e74kwO8HRRQThe Brave Ones - https://youtu.be/xl7EXoU2xgo
After a brush with death, Damien Mander searches for a way to change his life and the lives of others. In the second of our two-part series, Damien tells Zainab about founding the International Anti-Poaching Foundation and leaving a life of destruction for one of conservation, innovation and protecting the planet.
Damien Mander, founder of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation, once served as a sniper in the Australian military and as a private security contractor during the insurgency in Iraq. He barely made it out alive and left with a burning need to change his life. In the first of two parts, Damien unpacks how childhood violence led to a path of unstoppable aggression, and talks with Zainab, in her most personal interview yet, about participating in a system that caused pain and destruction in her native country. Damien and Zainab come together here in the spirit of healing, reconciliation and truth.
Damien Mander is a former Iraq War veteran that used the skills he developed in the Australian Special Forces to found the International Anti-Poaching Foundation (IAPF) that provides training to local communities in Zimbabwe, and beyond, on how to protect and conserve the native animal population of Africa from poaching. Hosts Chinny and Emmett of the Play it Forward Podcast presented by PeacePlayers explore with Damien the moments where he realized this passion to conserve and protect the environment turned to purpose. And in one of Play It Forward's more inspiring conversations, we also hear how the IAPF stumbled onto one of Africa's most successful and sustainable community development programs to date; oh, and it's also led by some of Africa's most vulnerable population, women that have experienced great trauma. This program, and these women, are known as the Akashinga. Today's episode features strong language and depictions of violence against women and animals, viewer discretion advided. To learn more about the work Damien is doing visit the links below: International Anti-Poaching Foundation - https://www.iapf.org/ National Geographic short on Akashinga - https://youtu.be/WUYQS40I9mw Twitter: @IAPF Instagram: @int.anti.poaching.foundation Facebook: @iapf.org Facebook - Akashinga: @Akashinga Interested in learning more about PeacePlayers mission to build a more peaceful and equitable world? Visit our website https://peaceplayers.org/playitforwardpodcast/ and check out our social handles. Twitter: @peaceplayers Instagram: @peaceplayersintl and @playitforwardpodcast Facebook: @peaceplayersintl LinkedIn: PeacePlayers International YouTube: PeacePlayers The Play It Forward podcast is produced by: Chinny Nwagbo Emmett Shepard Leif Frymire The Play It Forward podcast audio engineering and editing LeBaron Leath Animation and music created and designed by LeBaron Leath Podcast Cover Art by: Adam Hawkins Marketing by: Gabriella Mora Sophie Kennedy Bailee Rasmussen
On this new Wild For Change podcast episode, we will be speaking with Damien Mander, founder of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation. Damien was a naval clearance diver and special operations sniper for the Australian Defense Force. He completed 3 years of duty in Iraq. While traveling through Africa, he was inspired by the work of game rangers. He decided to liquidate all his assets to create the International Anti-Poaching Foundation (IAPF) in 2009. The mission of IAPF is to deliver ecological stability and long-term protection of large-scale wilderness landscapes by supporting and empowering local communities. In 2017, IAPF founded Africa's first armed, plant-based diet, all women anti-poaching unit called Akashinga – which means the Brave Ones. This unit began with 16 women who came from the local community and were trained to protect nature reserves. The goal is to employ 1,000 women protecting 20 nature reserves by 2025. Now women have the opportunity as much as men to be on the frontlines protecting the wildlife.Key accomplishments made by IAPF:1.3 million acres have been protected by AkashingaThere has been an 80% reduction in poaching in the communities where IAPF serves.350% increase in wildlifeIn 2019, Damien received the Winsome Constance Kindness Gold Medal. It is a prestigious award given to individuals who dedicate their lives to humanitarian and animal causes. During this podcast, we learn from Damien:How women rangers are helping change the face of conservation Why looking after nature can provide us with a brighter futureWhat we can do to help improve the future for animals, ourselves, and our planet What IAPF's vision is for the next ten years
Damien Mander, Founder and CEO of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation, discusses the role that humans play in the “machine of nature”, as well as how he's been able to utilize skills learned as an Australian Royal Navy Clearance Diver and Special Operations military sniper in order to protect biodiversity and end poaching. Mander and host of #ThePlaybook, David Meltzer, share their thoughts on the role that sales skills play in fundraising and how connecting to a sense of purpose can endear you to those with the same values. Mander also talks about how his organization has been able to use women's empowerment as one of its most valuable tools. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Meet Damien. He's an Australian special operations sniper who was traveling through Africa in 2009 and was inspired by the work of rangers and the plight of wildlife. Liquidating his life savings, the International Anti-Poaching Foundation was established to be the last line of defense for nature. Over the past decade the IAPF has scaled to train and support rangers which now help protect more than 1.1 million acres of habitats in Zimbabwe. And these rangers are ALL WOMEN. They're trained like special operations soldiers and are warriors protecting wildlife and wild spaces. Ya'll. This story
“So, we had 87 women come in for what we call pre-selection, the interviews... And I can say that after all the shit that I've been through in my life, that was some of the hardest two days of my life, listening to those stories. And, it was hard in a way because they were genuinely tough stories, but it was also hard in a way to know that even though I hadn't done anything directly to these women, I was part of a culture that had kept women just like this oppressed, the boys club, the macho club, all that sort of thing. And just part of, I suppose, this macho culture.” - Damien Mander Damien was on the show in December and the sound was horrendous. He was in the bush in Zimbabwe and I was in NYC and our connection was bad. We redid the interview last week, in person, in NYC - and it's sounds like a dream… Damien Mander is the founder and CEO of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation (IAPF). He is a former Australian Royal Navy clearance diver and a special operations military sniper who became an anti-poaching crusader and an environmental and animal welfare activist. In 2009, while travelling through Africa, he was inspired by the work of rangers and the plight of wildlife. He liquidated his life savings and established the International Anti-Poaching Foundation. Over the past decade the IAPF has scaled to train and support rangers which now help protect over 20 million acres of African wilderness. In 2017 Damien founded ‘Akashinga - Nature Protected by Women,' an IAPF program that has already grown to over 240 employees with 7 nature reserves in the portfolio. They are the only group of nature reserves in the world to be protected by women. And, these women are changing the game in terms of what it means to fight poaching. Damien was featured in the James Cameron documentary The Game Changers and has now released another documentary with James Cameron and National Geographic about his work with the women of Akashinga – “The Brave One's.” He is a resident on the National Geographic Speakers Bureau, has spoken at the United Nations, featured in June 2019's National Geographic Magazine, and has been featured three times on 60 Minutes. And, if you haven't seen it, watch his TEDx Talk at the Sidney Oprah House, it's just awesome. It was an honor to spend time with Damien. He is a warrior, a hero and a man who understands what it means to never stop evolving.
What would you sacrifice to stand up for nature? Imagine liquidating everything you owned, leaving where you live, the people you know and love to respond to nature's desperate call in the African wilderness. This is the story of Damien Mander, the Founder and CEO of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation. Damien was born in Australia and is now based in Zimbabwe, and is an Iraq War Veteran who served as a naval clearance diver and Special Operations sniper for the Australian Defence Force. Following a few catalyst moments on an African adventure trip where he witnessed poacher violence to an ivory-stripped elephant and a pregnant buffalo, Damien knew he was about to embark on a fight bigger than one he'd ever fought at war and what today has become his life's work. Thirteen years later, the IAPF formed in 2009, have over 240 employees protecting over 20 million acres of African wilderness. He also formed Akashinga, “The Brave Ones” - an all female, plant-based anti-poaching unit who are bringing heart and empathy to this fight and are succeeding. Damien remains hopeful and his dedication to wildlife conservation is incredibly powerful and inspiring to listen to. The work he and the team do is critical to the future of some of nature's most beautiful creatures, biodiversity, the local community and in turn, climate change. I speak to Damien today about his personal transformation from hunter and sniper to vegan and animal activist. We discuss the remarkable women of Akashinga and the promising future of the IAPF. I hope you enjoy the episode. You can learn more about the IAPF on their website or follow them on some of the below social channels for news and to witness the day-to-day work of this dedicated team of wildlife warriors. Instagram YouTube Twitter
In celebration of the 20th episode of A Kynd Life, I am sharing my story. I grew up loving animals and at age 15 I went vegetarian after seeing a snippet of chicken slaughterhouse footage. Fourteen years later, I had an amazing opportunity to speak to Damien Mander, Founder of International Anti Poaching Foundation, and I made the life changing decision to go vegan. I knew it wasn't enough to just be vegan, I had to help animals, so I started volunteering at Victorian Lamb Rescue. I am also an Organiser of Anonymous for the Voiceless Geelong Chapter and more recently have become active in my local Animal Justice Party regional group. In this episode, I discuss being a strong voice for the animals, how I manage relationships with non vegans, valuing the vegan community and adopting lambs from Victorian Lamb Rescue. https://www.instagram.com/akyndlife/https://www.facebook.com/elisha.atchison
Today we speak to the incredible Damien Mander, Founder and CEO of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation. He has worked tirelessly to help preserve endangered animals, working with local African conservationists to help train them to protect our last remaining species of African wildlife. Damien is an Iraq war veteran who served as a Naval clearance diver and special operations sniper for the Australian Defense Force. In 2009 while travelling through Africa, he was inspired by the work of rangers and the plight of wildlife. Liquidating his life savings, the International Anti-Poaching Foundation was established to be the last line of defence for nature. Over the past decade the IAPF has scaled to train and support rangers which now help protect over 20 million acres of African wilderness. In 2017 Damien founded ‘Akashinga - Nature Protected by Women’, an IAPF program that has already grown to over 240 employees with 7 nature reserves in the portfolio. They are the only group of nature reserves in the world to be protected by women. Their goal is to employ 1000 women by 2025, protecting a network of 20 nature reserves. He is the winner of the 2019 Winsome Constance Kindness Gold Medal, a prestigious international recognition for services to animals and humanity. Past recipients include Sir David Attenborough and Dr Jane Goodall. He was featured in the newly released documentary The Game Changers from 6-time Oscar winning Director James Cameron, and has now released another documentary with James Cameron and National Geographic about his work with the women of Akashinga – “The Brave One’s”.. as you can imagine I was quite excited to get to speak to someone which such an incredible resume of doing good in the world. Today, Damien and I discuss our relationship to the natural world, the importance of protecting endangered species, how we can all help animals by switching to a plant based diet, and also the importance of supporting females in conservation
Sentient Media caught up with Damien Mander, founder of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation, to talk about his work in Africa and how reliance on the meat industry is destroying our ability to protect wilderness. Damien Mander, aka The Vegan Snipper, founder of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation, has been changing the way we protect our wildlife since 2009. In this interview, Sentient Media's Executive Director, Ana Bradley, explores how women are leading change for Africa's wildlife, the need for conservationists to champion plant-based living, and a typical day in the life of the Vegan Sniper. Watch the interview on YouTube: Follow Damien and his team here:https://www.iapf.org https://www.facebook.com/iapf.org https://www.facebook.com/akashinga https://twitter.com/IAPFhttps://www.instagram.com/int.anti.po... https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaca... https://www.linkedin.com/company/inte... https://www.instagram.com/damien_mander/ Hit subscribe and find us here: Newsletter: https://sentientmedia.org/newsletter Facebook: https://facebook.com/sentientmediaorg Twitter: https://twitter.com/sentient_media Instagram: https://instagram.com/sentient_media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sent...
“If you're an alpha, why would you want to kill something that can't defend itself? Or even worse, why would you want to pay someone else to do that for you?”On this week's episode of the Eat Green Make Green Podcast I sit down with the legendary Damien Mander. Damien is a former special operations sniper for the Australian Defense Force who did 12 tours to Iraq in the years following September 11th. In 2009, after a trip to Africa, Damien liquidated his life saving to found the International Anti-Poaching Foundation, which now protects over 20 million acres of African wilderness. We talk about what led Damien to the military as a young man, what he learned from his time in Iraq, when he decided to stop exploiting and start protecting animals, why he founded the IAPF and what they've done over the past decade, why he formed the first ever all-women anti-poaching unit Akashinga, why empowering women is the greatest force for positive change in the world today, why removing animals from his diet was the best decision of his life, why real alpha males protect the vulnerable, and how you can support the IAPF. Recently featured in James Cameron's Game Changers, Damien is truly making kindness and respect for all, badass.Show NotesDONATE! - International Anti-Poaching Foundation SiteMore on AkashingaIAPF InstagramDamien's InstagramDamien's TEDx TalkThe Game Changers Film
This season of The ChickPeeps is brought to you by our friends at Vivo Life! Use our code 'chickpeeps10' to get 10% off your order at vivolife.com. This week on the show we're talking to the founder of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation, Damien Mander. Damien is a former Special Operations sniper who traveled to Africa in 2009, after leaving the military, in search of a new adventure. Instead he discovered “a purpose amongst chaos” when he saw the body of an enormous bull elephant that had been brutally killed for his tusks. In that moment, Damien's life changed forever and our movement gained a powerful, passionate and highly skilled animal advocate. In this interview Damien talks to Robbie and Evy about his vegan journey, founding the IAPF and about Akashinga, Africa's first armed, plant-based, all-women anti-poaching unit. We conducted this interview while Damien was at one of the IAPF reserves in Kenya. The sounds you can hear in the background of our conversation are the authentic noises of the Kenyan wildlife at night! Also in this episode… Damien identifies going vegan as the single most important thing he's done with his life. In pursuit of adventure, Damien talks about his initial motivation to visit Africa, having heard about the anti-poaching world years earlier. “These guys are defending the heart and lungs of the planet.” - Damien talks about seeing the work of rangers for the first time, and how it made him see past his ego to reevaluate his life and the kind of person he wanted to be. “Having hunted [animals] before Iraq, I never hunted after Iraq because I knew what it was like to be hunted” - Damien talks about how his perspective on animals was radically shifted by his experiences serving twelve tours in Iraq. How the world of anti-poaching gave Damien a purpose that had previously eluded him. Damien shares how he repurposed his skills as a sniper in the army to set up the International Anti-Poaching Foundation. We learn about Akashinga, Africa's first plant-based all-female anti-poaching unit and Damien shares why he believes women are innately predisposed to be able to protect wildlife and de-escalate conflict. “The women are survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence, AIDs orphans, single mothers, abandoned wives and when we set this up we thought, ‘lets give an opportunity to some of the most marginalized women, in the toughest positions' - what we didn't realise is we were getting the hardest women there were” - on the all female Akashinga rangers. “There's two types of conservationists. Vegans… and those that don't like to take their work home” - Damien pulls no punches when talking about his stance on veganism as a conservationist. Damien has a fresh definition of the alpha male. Links: International Anti-Poaching Foundation Damien's Modern Warrior TEDtalk Phillip Wollen: Animals Should Be Off the Menu Akashinga: The Brave Ones The Game Changers Chef Cola's Instagram Get In Touch: Bonus Content: ChickPeeps Patreon Instagram: @ChickPeepsPod Facebook: @ChickPeepsPodcast
“Even the first morning we saw a toughness, a certain toughness that I hadn't been experienced to. What we didn't realize with selection criteria that we're putting out there, is that we're actually getting the toughest in those communities. Not only in these communities, I mean, you're talking about one of our poorest places in one of the harshest areas on the planet, The Zambezi Valley and the life of a woman in rural Zimbabwe in the Zambezi Valley is it's not an easy one. And so we thought, with all this military selection, we were going to put them through what we perceived to be torture - putting them through the, what we in the military term, the four pillars of misery: to be hungry, cold, tired, and wet for extended periods of time and physical and mental strain. The thing is, the harder we pushed these women the more they smiled.” Damien Mander Damien Mander is the founder and CEO of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation (IAPF). He is a former Australian Royal Navy clearance diver and a special operations military sniper who became an anti-poaching crusader and an environmental and animal welfare activist. In 2009, while traveling through Africa, he was inspired by the work of rangers and the plight of wildlife. He liquidated his life savings and established the International Anti-Poaching Foundation. Over the past decade the IAPF has scaled to train and support rangers which now help protect over 20 million acres of African wilderness. In 2017 Damien founded ‘Akashinga - Nature Protected by Women,’ an IAPF program that has already grown to over 240 employees with 7 nature reserves in the portfolio. They are the only group of nature reserves in the world to be protected by women. And, these women are changing the game in terms of what it means to fight poaching. Damien was featured in the James Cameron documentary The Game Changers and has now released another documentary with James Cameron and National Geographic about his work with the women of Akashinga – “The Brave One’s.” He is a resident on the National Geographic Speakers Bureau, has spoken at the United Nations, featured in June 2019’s National Geographic Magazine, and has been featured three times on 60 Minutes. And, if you haven’t seen it, watch his TEDx Talk at the Sidney Oprah House, it’s just awesome. It was an honor to spend time with Damien. He is a warrior, a hero and a man who understands what it means to never stop evolving
We celebrate World Elephant Day with the much anticipated release of National Geographic’s “Akashinga – The Brave Ones”, a documentary by James Cameron about the incredible work of the IAPF – the International Anti-Poaching Foundation.Botswana’s elephant mystery continues…Singapore crush over 8 tonnes of ivory.Stem cell research could bring back the Malaysian Sumatran rhino. Peter talks about his editorial in www.rhinoreview.org.The New Big Five – the global call to re-create The Big Five around the animals we want to save, not shoot.As Cameroon passes legislation to protect the Ebo Forest from loggers, Moby reminds us why we must protect pristine wild ecosystems from rampant agriculture with his new single, “My Only Love”.Facebook take steps to curb the illegal wildlife trade on their platform, but is it enough?The oil spill in Mauritius could be worse than expected as governments and shipping companies flounder in their responses to the disaster.In studio: Simon Borchert, Shannon Elizabeth and Peter Borchert.EXCLUSIVE OFFER! The Mantis Collection is offering a staggering 20% to Art Of Conservation listeners to visit Siringit Serengeti Camp. To claim your exclusive discount code in your inbox and to start planning your stay at this luxury tented camp in the heart of Africa, sign up to our newsletter here.
This week saw the anticipated release of the National Geographic documentary, “Akashinga - The Brave Ones”. The 13 minute documentary is produced by James Cameron and co-produced and directed by Maria Wilhelm. It is masterful and showcases what must be one of the greatest conservation stories of our time. It dispels the traditional faceless and emotionless facade of militarized conservation and instead offers an insight into the individuals who have become the benchmark for community based anti-poaching programs the world over. Their vulnerability and defiance of social convention in becoming rangers provides us with a rare view not just into conservation, but equally importantly, into the socio-economic challenges faced by women across the African continent. The visionary behind Akashinga is the Founder of the IAPF - the International Anti-Poaching Foundation, Damien Mander. With remarkable story of his own, Damien has committed his life to the initiative and is, after 11 years, seeing some very hard earned results. In this interview, Damien shares his journey in creating the documentary, what the deserved global focus on the documentary means to IAPF, his commitment to veganism and finally, his vision for what still needs to be done. To support IAPF, please visit their website to donate.To watch the documentary, see below and visit www.akashinga.film
Damien is a very interesting individual with a very unique story. Firstly, he is not your typical vegan. Damien was an army man - having a military background, he served in Iraq and eventually decided to come to Africa - where he had his life epiphany. in 2009 Damien decided to liquidate all his financial assets and set forth on a mission of conservation, one which he has dedicated the last 11 years to. He founded the International Anti Poaching Foundation, an organization that focuses on conservation and anti-poaching efforts. The IAPF is also the first-ever to start an all-female ranger unit called Akashinga. Akashinga's main effort is to attempt to de-escalate dangerous poaching situations (rather than using force) - and they have seen massive success in the last few years. With Jane Goodall on the advisory board, the IAPF, headed by Damien, has become a real force for good in the areas in which they operate. During our chat, we discuss Damien's journey from a mischievous lad in Australia, to serious army man, to eventually the role that he holds now - protecting wildlife and conserving the environment in southern Africa. In his sharing of his time in the army, having had a military background myself, I definitely felt a connection and an understanding of what he went through. I had such a great time talking to Damian, who is currently at the main IAPF headquarters in Zimbabwe. I'm really grateful to have this opportunity to connect with people from all over the world. My Take - People change. We are always evolving, and our past/life experiences do not always predicate where we will end up in the world - or the beliefs we will hold which will mold our lives. Having had the epiphany he did, Damien went with it, changed his life, and is now at the forefront of animals and habitat conservation. A truly inspiring story! International Anti-Poaching Foundation - https://www.iapf.org/ Damien Manders' Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/damien_mander/ Comments, requests or questions, please reach out - my email is roybntz@gmail.com
Damien Mander is founder and CEO of The International Anti-Poaching Foundation and, if you’ve seen “The Game Changers” documentary, you’ll also, no doubt, remember his powerful contribution to the film as a former hunter-turned-conservationist. In this candid interview, Mander describes his former self - the alpha male who used to take aim at the vulnerable through the hunting, killing, and eating of animals. A chance meeting with an elephant transformed him from a meat-loving Aussie to a plant-strong crusader with a personal mission to protect animals and the world’s natural heritage for future generations. You’ll hear all about the initiatives of the IAPF and their valiant efforts to protect over 20 million acres of the African wilderness. In 2017 Damien founded ‘Akashinga – Nature Protected by Women’, an IAPF program that has already grown to over 170 employees, becoming the only group of nature reserves in the world to be protected by women. Their goal is to employ 1000 women by 2025, protecting a network of 20 nature reserves, all managed by the IAPF. We’ve recently seen first-hand just how delicate our ecosystems are and, thanks to people like Damien, we are fighting valiantly, with thought-provoking conversations just like these that inspire us to action. Episode Resources: International Anti-Poaching Foundation Damien's Mander's TEDx Talk Support for this week's episode comes from Wild Earth Dog Food - use promo code: PLANTSTRONG for 40% order Help us improve access to the Engine 2 Food Line! Survey closed 4/20/20 Thanks! Seeking a solution for making the plant-strong lifestyle convenient and inspiring? The Plant-Strong Meal Planner offers 1000s of recipes customized to your preferences, an integrated shopping list and grocery delivery! Our Engine 2 Coaches are on hand to offer support and answer any questions. Visit our Plant-Strong Meal Planner today and use promo code: HEALTHNOW to save $20 off an annual plan. Theme music for episode
Imagine building your own army to tackle head on the injustice you see in the world. That’s exactly what former Special Ops Sniper in the Iraqi War, Damien Mander, decided to do. While visiting Africa after leaving Iraq he saw the damage and destruction being done to our planet’s most endangered species. Damien decided he would do something about it. He sold his investment portfolio and founded the International Anti-Poaching Foundation. His army of 37 women in Zimbabwe protects elephants, rhino and other endangered species from poachers. He is now expanding to Kenya, Mozambique and South Africa. On the Awesome Vegans with Elysabeth Alfano Podcast and Video Series, Damien, accompanied by lead ranger Vimbai Kumire, explains how empowering women to protect animals has been one of the most important things he has ever done. For more information, visit http://ElysabethAlfano.com and https://www.iapf.org .
Another benefit of going vegan: You don’t support animal suffering. In today’s episode, Damien Mander joins Nimai as an activist against poaching and animal suffering. Inspired by his tragic experiences, Damien founded the International Anti-Poaching Foundation. Hear how he fights against animal suffering and provides alternatives for African communities. Take some notes on why plant-based diets support his mission and how you can get involved today! “We all see problems in life and its what we do or whether we turn away that defines us.” -Damien Mander What do you want to hear from the Generation V Podcast? Tell us here! Timestamps: 1:43 - Who Damien Mander is and why you NEED to know how to stop animal suffering 7:48 - Witnessing and fighting against suffering: how Damien started making a difference against both human and animal suffering 16:47 - Stories of animal suffering and what you need to fight against by joining forces with organizations like the International Anti-Poaching Foundation 22:18 - How IAPF resists poaching, trains others to lead the movement against poaching, and transforms peoples perspectives about life as a whole 28:27 - How the military is transitioning to promote the abilities and equality of women and how IAPF is doing the same 33:26 - Why women and the values of women have promoted the success of IAPF operations in Africa and how they have created an economic alternative to trophy hunting through community 39:22 - Don’t deny the truth: How every animal experiences suffering and how every person can have a HUGE impact by switching to and promoting veganism 46:50 - How Damien and IAPF aim to fight the poaching industry through a sustainable economic alternative and how you can get involved Resources: Damien’s War | 60 Minutes Connect with Damien: Facebook Instagram Twitter International Anti-Poaching Foundation Connect with Nimai: Facebook Instagram Youtube VeganFitness.com Vivolife.com Builtapparel.net Discount Code: Nimai10
Akashinga - The Brave Ones in the Zambezi Valley of Zimbabwe - Strong, brave women with super tough backgrounds have come together under the direction of Damien Mander, Founder of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation (iapf.org) and are a force to be reckoned with. This podcast is about empowering women with hope and bringing positivity to their lives. Damien is doing this and as in any culture, the ripple effects of empowering these women is being felt not only amongst themselves, but it is having positive effects in their communities and the entire eco-system of that community. This shift was met with loads of resistance, but Damien has pushed through every obstacle. You will learn more about his journey here, learn about these incredible women, and then learn what you can do to help this movement continue. I invite you to partake of this podcast and then decide what you can do from your corner of the world to be a conservationist and support the Akashinga Initiative.
Damien Mander had a military career with the Australian Royal Navy as a Clearance Diver and Special Operations sniper. In 2009, he completely cashed in and became the founder of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation in Africa. He was in DC recently to raise funds for his organization, and was able to give Commander Divine some time to talk about his work in Africa and how he is developing leaders amongst Rangers in several African countries. Learn how Damien recruits largely from the female population for his rangers lately for stronger connections to the communities affected by poaching How his anti-poaching efforts came from going to Africa first, and gaining understanding later It’s important to include the communities in his efforts, rather than just “declaring war” on both poaching and the communities Listen to this episode for a fascinating conversation about courage, leadership and the importance of preserving the eco-system.
Damien Mander had a military career with the Australian Royal Navy as a Clearance Diver and Special Operations sniper. In 2009, he completely cashed in and became the founder of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation in Africa. He was in DC recently to raise funds for his organization, and was able to give Commander Divine some time to talk about his work in Africa and how he is developing leaders amongst Rangers in several African countries. Learn how Damien recruits largely from the female population for his rangers lately for stronger connections to the communities affected by poaching How his anti-poaching efforts came from going to Africa first, and gaining understanding later It's important to include the communities in his efforts, rather than just "declaring war" on both poaching and the communities Listen to this episode for a fascinating conversation about courage, leadership and the importance of preserving the eco-system.
Damien was a naval special operations sniper in the Australian Defense Force. When he completed his 12th tour of duty in Iraq he traveled around the world to discover his life meaning and passion. He ended up in the African bush face-to-face with the horrors the world’s wildlife is facing from poaching and gave up everything from his previous life and started the International Anti-Poaching Foundation.
Welcome to the 385th episode of Our Hen House! Mariann interviews anti-poaching crusader Damien Mander, founder (and funder) of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation, dedicated to the protection of wildlife in some of the world’s most volatile regions. Damien’s personal evolution led him […]
We get an update from Damien, the Australian founder & CEO of the IAPF, which primarily exists to protect rhinos and elephants from the ruthless organised crime syndicates that deal in rhino horn and elephant tusks. He explains what's developed in southern Africa since he was here in the 3CR studio in May last year. This includes the recent vicious attacks on two IAPF rangers in Mozambique, IAPF's new accredited training program for anti-poaching rangers, and South Africa's plans to legalise the trade in rhino horn. Damien also reveals how the mind of a hunter works, by drawing on his own past. International Anti-Poaching Foundation www.iapf.org
At present, rhinos in sub-Saharan Africa are being exterminated at a rate of more than one per day, leading to extinction by 2020. With poaching reaching epidemic levels in the region. Something needs to be done to end the slaughter. Enter Damien Mander, ex-Australian Special Forces who founded the IAPF, who's mission is to protect and preserve wildlife in volatile regions. IAPF focuses its mission through a number of methods, first and foremost through training, equipment, and deployment of rangers to the frontline of the war on poaching, providing them with the latest tactics and operating procedures. Key to the success of their mission is engaging, educating and involving local communities that border protected areas, through sustainable projects and initiatives, providing lifestyle and economic alternatives to poaching. Learn More: http://www.iapf.org/en/
This week, the FOS team will be joined in the studio by our friend Justine Curatolo who has recently returned from volunteering in Zimbabwe with the International Anti-Poaching Foundation (IAPF).International Anti-Poaching Foundation: http://www.iapf.org Justine's fundraising page: https://www.gofundme.com/2nn97q2s
Recently, there have been efforts to remove the horn from the wild rhinoceros in an effort to protect them from being slaughtered for their horns. Is this a wise idea or will this merely maim the animal, rendering it helpless in the wild? There have been many efforts to protect wildlife but one of the most important ways this can be achieved is by training the anti-poaching volunteers using military techniques. In this encore segment of The Organic View Radio Show, host, June Stoyer talks to Damien Mander, CEO of The International Anti-Poaching Foundation about the illegal trafficking of wildlife industry and why there needs to be a global ban on canned hunting. Today's show is sponsored by Eden Foods the most trusted name in certified organic clean food! When you shop online at EdenFoods.com enter the coupon code “ORGVIEW” to receive 20% OFF any regularly priced items (excluding cases). For other promotional offers, please visit TheOrganicView.com's website. Tune in to The Organic View Radio Show, Monday through Friday at 6pm Eastern and visit our contest section at www.theorganicview.com/contests to win one of our monthly prizes!
We talk with Damien Mander, the Australian founder of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation, about his work in southern Africa, the future prospects of the rhino, and being unwussy. www.iapf.org
"When the buying stops, the killing can too" reads the popular slogan that WildAid uses in its anti-ivory campaign to raise awareness in China. WildAid, along with most Western environmentalists, contend that curbing demand in China for ivory is the key factor to help save the African elephant from extinction. Damien Mander disagrees. Mander is the founder of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation and a leader in a new movement that is militarizing the fight against illegal wildlife poaching in southern Africa. Mander is a former Australia special forces soldier who also served multiple tours in Iraq as private military contractor. Today, he trains wildlife protection teams throughout southern Africa where he says the fight to save these animals will not be won by curbing demand in Asia but combating the organized crime syndicates that run the illegal ivory trade. Damien Mander joins Eric & Cobus to discuss what he thinks needs to be done to save Africa's rapidly shrinking elephant population. Join the discussion and tell us what you think of Mander's approach to save Africa's elephants: Facebook: www.facebook.com/ChinaAfricaProject Eric on Twitter: @eolander Cobus on Twitter: @standenesque Subscribe to the China in Africa podcast: www.itunes.com/ChinaAfricaPodcast
At present, rhinos in sub-Saharan Africa are being exterminated at a rate of more than one per day, leading to extinction by 2020. With poaching reaching epidemic levels in the region. Something needs to be done to end the slaughter. Enter Damien Mander, ex-Australian Special Forces who founded the IAPF, who's mission is to protect and preserve wildlife in volatile regions. IAPF focuses its mission through a number of methods, first and foremost through training, equipment, and deployment of rangers to the frontline of the war on poaching, providing them with the latest tactics and operating procedures. Key to the success of their mission is engaging, educating and involving local communities that border protected areas, through sustainable projects and initiatives, providing lifestyle and economic alternatives to poaching. Learn More: http://www.iapf.org/en/
Join us as we celebrate the wildlife warriors among us and dig into worldwide conservation efforts with guest Thomas Root of Wildlife Warriors United. Check out Wildlife Warriors United at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/533646386647893/ International Anti-Poaching Foundation http://www.iapf.org/en/ Collin Riddel's site http://dugongandturtles.webs.com/ http://www.bobirwinwildlife.com/ Rise Against Rattlesnake Roundups http://riseagainstrattlesnakeroundups.com/