Our Team

Director: Merlyn Nomusa Nkomo

Merlyn is an Ornithologist by profession currently pursuing a PhD in Conservation Biology at the FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology at the University of Cape Town. In 2019, Merlyn founded the Mat’land Chirpers as a community of birding and conservation enthusiasts that would grow to become MYCS.

She is a conservationist, writer, thought leader and strategist, seeking to facilitate the transformation of conservation in Africa to a more inclusive, decolonized and rights conscious model. Merlyn believes that inclusion is central to empowering African communities to sustainably improve their livelihoods while conserving their natural resources. She is an award-winning science communicator and has written widely on the changes needed in the different spheres of conservation science and practice. She is passionate about mentoring young people, especially those pursuing careers in the biodiversity economy. She is a proud Mawazo Institute Fellow, Oppenheimer Memorial Trust Scholar, former One Woman’s Legacy Scholar, NEWF Fellow, alumnus of the Mandela Rhodes Foundation and the Tropical Biology Association (TBA), communities all dedicated to moving the African continent forward.

Administrator: Amanda Khosa

Email: info@mycs.africa

Amanda Khosa is a conservation educator with a strong background in ecological research and environmental advocacy in Zimbabwe. Amanda leads environmental education initiatives, facilitating climate change awareness in schools and communities, and supporting the formation of youth-led wildlife clubs. She has experience coordinating conservation education programs, planning community events, and promoting sustainable natural resource management. Amanda’s background also includes ecological research, human-wildlife conflict management planning, and vegetation mapping. She is currently involved in youth-focused conservation leadership programs, delivering lectures on conservation issues to inspire action among non-conservation students. Amanda blends technical expertise with strong project management and critical thinking skills. She is deeply committed to building resilient, environmentally conscious communities through education, advocacy, and youth empowerment.

Program Manager: Karim Lawrence Ayibu

Email: programs@mycs.africa

Karim Ayibu is a nature photographer, storyteller and conservation advocate. With a background in Development Studies, he is inspired by how empowering communities, especially young people, can drive lasting environmental change. At Matabeleland Youth Conservation Society, he leads efforts to design and support grassroots conservation programs and activities that engage youth in protecting their environment. He is passionate about promoting citizen science through bird counts, biodiversity surveys, and nature walks, helping children and youth build a deeper connection with nature. Through his blog, Karim’s Compass, and conservation photography, he highlights the beauty of Zimbabwe’s wildlife and landscapes and the role local communities play in safeguarding them. He believes in the power of storytelling and creative media to strengthen youth voices, raise awareness and inspire a new generation of conservation leaders for Matabeleland and beyond.

Partnerships Manager: Joan Fadzai Banda

Email: partnerships@mycs.africa

Joan is an ecologist with a passion for conservation and adventure. She’s explored Southern and Western Africa, working with orgs like Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Authority and BirdLife Zimbabwe. With a Master’s in Conservation Biology, Joan’s expertise shines in sustainable grassland and savannah management. She’s all about fresh ideas, like eco-friendly waste management. Outside work, Joan’s always up for an adventure, spotting birds, and planning her next trip!

Projects Manager: Ashrah Shereni

Email: projects@mycs.africa

Ashrah is an ecologist and conservationist dedicated to sustainable landscape conservation across Africa’s biodiversity-critical regions. Her work focuses on integrated rangeland ecology and creating science-driven, community-powered strategies to protect and restore ecosystems. She is passionate about building resilient landscapes that balance ecological health with human needs, applying holistic management practices to support biodiversity, soil restoration, and climate resilience. Beyond research, Ashrah is deeply committed to inspiring the next generation of conservation leaders through environmental education and hands-on STEM initiatives. She believes that empowering young people with knowledge and opportunities is key to shaping a more sustainable future. Through her work and advocacy, she aims to connect science, communities, and youth voices to promote inclusive governance and lasting stewardship of Africa’s natural heritage.