Tanzania’s Next movement:

Innovation. Skills. Impact

Empowering the Next Generation of Conservationists

WHEN

13th and 14th June
2026

WHERE

Arusha, Tanzania
UWC

WHAT

Empowering young people to lead climate and conservation through collaboration, innovation, and action.

ABOUT US

The Youth4Nature (Y4N) Conference, held biennially in Arusha, has its roots in the African Protected Area Congress (APAC) of July 2022, hosted in Kigali, Rwanda. Sparked by the zeal of Tanzanian conservationists at APAC, Y4N aims to be a vibrant hub where diverse young minds can swap stories, skills, and strategies in the realm of conservation careers. We understand how hard it is for young professionals to find avenues to share their experience amidst demanding fieldwork commitments, that’s why Y4N steps in as a vital bridge, fostering collaboration among rising leaders in the conservation field.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND?

Interested young professionals from various backgrounds including but not limited to researchers, data geeks, rangers, financial wizards, tech gurus, communicators, and fundraising champs.

WHY YOU SHOULD ATTEND?

  • Engage in Meaningful Conversations with conservation experts, innovators, and emerging leaders shaping the future of environmental leadership.
  • Gain Practical Insights from talks that explore new ideas, real challenges, and solutions in conservation.
  • Expand Your Network by connecting with like-minded professionals and organizations in the conservation community.
  • Discover Fresh Perspectives through real-world experiences and innovative ideas shared by inspiring speakers.

YOUTH4NATURE CONFERENCE 2026

The Youth4Nature Conference brings together young conservation leaders, innovators, and professionals to shape the future of conservation in Tanzania and beyond.

Held in Arusha, the two-day event connects over 50 speakers and 250 participants to explore diverse career pathways, emerging technologies, and people-centered conservation approaches.

Building a feature in conservation: Learn from experienced conservation leaders and CEOs about career pathways, leadership journeys, and the realities of working in the sector.

Conservation in Practice (Land and Marine): Explore real-world examples of conservation in action from community-led land management and habitat restoration to resolving human-wildlife conflict and advancing marine protection

 Next-Gen Conservation: Understand how to use modern tools such as AI, data analytics, and satellite monitoring while ensuring ethical, responsible, and impactful use of emerging technologies.

Digital voices for nature: Discover how storytelling, reels, documentaries, content creation, and social media campaigns are transforming the way conservation messages are delivered and received.

Keynote Speech:  Keynote speakers will address vital issues and solutions in conservation, featuring experts who will share insights, experiences, and ideas shaping the direction of conservation and the necessary human resources, setting the tone for group panel discussions.

Group Panel Discussion: Led by a moderator, the panel discussions build upon the keynote speaker’s address, featuring small groups of experts who delve into current and future conservation challenges, career development, and solutions, offering diverse perspectives, experiences, and insights on relevant topics.

Campfire Session

Campfire sessions offer a laid-back approach to presentations, starting with a brief talk before encouraging active audience involvement. Presenters facilitate discussions, allowing attendees to share insights and experiences, fostering collaborative learning and diverse perspectives.

TED Talks are flexible presentations lasting up to 10 minutes, allowing speakers to delve into their chosen topics. PechaKucha, however, offers a concise and visually-driven format: 20 slides, 20 seconds each, creating a fast-paced and engaging experience.

WildWildVision  

Various sessions focus on the impact of social media, films, and visuals that are changing the shape of conservation today and in the future.

Kijiweni Talks

Kijiweni talks offer a personal touch, held beneath a tree to foster a deep connection between speakers and the audience. Guided by a host, the format typically involves an interview-style conversation with a guest, allowing them to share concise insights from their experiences in conservation work. Audience members also get the chance to both listen and engage by posing questions to the guest speaker.

Kitimoto (the hot seats)

Kitimoto sessions serve as a platform for discussing broad questions that require diverse viewpoints. Experts participate in debates, taking on roles as proposers and opposers of a given topic, offering contrasting perspectives.

  • 50+ confirmed speakers from Tanzania and Kenya

  • Young conservation professionals across diverse fields

  • Leaders from NGOs, research institutions, tourism, government, and tech

  • Dedicated networking opportunities across two full days

  • Direct interaction with CEOs, managers, and recruiters

Apply to speak!

Step Up. Show Up. Shape What’s Next.

The future of conservation isn’t waiting, and neither should you.

Ready to Take the Stage?

If you have experience, insight, or a story that can move and motivate others, we invite you to apply as a speaker at Youth4Nature.

Ready to Be in the Room?

If you are passionate about conservation, eager to grow, and ready to connect with driven young professionals, register to participate and be part of the Youth4Nature experience.