Leslie Fatuma Bayanza is a passionate advocate for environmental conservation, a dedicated leader, and a committed community servant. She holds a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Global Challenges from the African Leadership University. Leslie is passionate about conservation, leadership, community service, and the art of storytelling.

Driven to create positive change, Leslie initiated the CHIYONA (Children and Youth for Nature) project in Goma, DR Congo. As a conservation educator, she actively engages high school students in the crucial mission of environmental protection. Through her project, she empowers young minds to be advocates for nature. Leslie is concerned about tackling environmental challenges and promoting conservation education, her mission is to create community awareness about environmental challenges and inspire active participation in preserving biodiversity.

Her remarkable journey in conservation has encompassed numerous volunteer and internship roles, including serving as a research database assistant for wildlife economy, contributing as a community development intern to promote gorilla conservation within the communities surrounding the Volcanoes National Park, and conducting vital research on clean and renewable energy, marine challenges, community conservation, and youth engagement in conservation. These experiences have endowed her with invaluable skills in communication, creative thinking, problem solving, data analysis, and community development.

Leslie participated in the Yali Regional Center East Africa Program, which helped her delve deeper into leadership, community service, and entrepreneurship. This transformative experience further fueled her passion for positively impacting her community. Leslie works tirelessly to empower communities and protect the environment for future generations.