Nigel D'Souza
2025 Eco-Hero
FINALIST
Nigel D'Souza
Age 14
Arusha, Tanzania
Protecting the Most Feared: Championing Snake Conservation
Nigel D'Souza’s journey into conservation began at the remarkable age of five after he witnessed a snake being killed out of fear. This event ignited a lifelong passion to protect and educate people about these misunderstood creatures.
As a young herpetologist and conservationist, Nigel focuses on challenging superstitions and a lack of knowledge surrounding snakes. He has become a prominent voice for wildlife conservation in East Africa, serving as an ambassador for an Anti-Poaching movement and speaking at conferences like "Youth for Nature." His expertise and passion led to a partnership with National Geographic's "Team Sayari" show, where he was a field reporter for two episodes—one on snake conservation and another on regreening arid lands using water bunds, showcasing the impactful work of organizations like Justdiggit.
Despite facing skepticism and a lack of support from some relatives and friends, Nigel persevered, becoming more confident in his mission. He is most proud of learning to overcome his discomfort around people by embracing his passion. His future plans include creating a documentary film on snake corridors to inspire the next generation of environmentalists and ultimately becoming a National Geographic Explorer.
Nigel D'Souza’s work demonstrates that understanding and education are the most powerful tools for conservation, and that with enough passion, one person can change how an entire community views the natural world.
