MEET
THE TEAM

Meet our dedicated team of conservationists and environmental advocates who are committed to protecting cheetahs. With a shared passion, we work together to create solutions for the future of cheetahs.

Administration

Our committed administration team brings extensive experience and knowledge, and is key in supporting our team. Their professionalism and meticulous attention to detail play a crucial role in our success.

Mary Wykstra

Executive Director

Mary Wykstra is the founder and director of Action for Cheetahs in Kenya (ACK). Mary started the program in 2001 in affiliation with the Cheetah Conservation Fund and the Kenya Wildlife Service. In 2009, she founded Carnivores, Livelihoods and Landscapes, a Kenya-based charity under which ACK and other carnivore projects operate. ACK was the first project and has grown from having only two employees to over 20 in 10 years. Together with a fellow colleague, Cosmas Wambua, they launched research studies on the ecology and status of cheetahs in Kenya. They expanded the study to evaluate the range-wide status of cheetahs, and in 2007, they completed the first National Cheetah Survey. The study involved the mapping of prey, factors that influence cheetah persistence, and human impact on cheetah survival. It was also used in setting objectives for the regional and national strategies for cheetahs (and wild dogs). Mary holds a Bachelor of Science from Michigan State University and a Master’s of Environmental Management from the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies. In February 2020, she completed Women in Conservation Leadership training through Colorado State University's Pathways to Human Dimensions in Conservation Program. Mary has experience in both Kenya and in Namibia with data collection, cheetah research techniques, capture and immobilization, community development, and education. Mary is proud to lead a team of over 20 staff who share her passion for cheetahs as they continue to have an impact on saving the cheetah, reducing conflicts, and encouraging environmental caretaking. Young people are the future of cheetah conservation, and Mary enjoys watching staff and students grow their skills in research and conservation leadership. In 2010, ACK launched a second study site in Samburu at the Meibae Community Conservancy about 90 km northwest of the Samburu National Reserve to compare cheetah survival in pastoral communities. The field base was officially opened in 2017. Mary has co-authored peer-reviewed papers and several chapters in a cheetah book using data from the past several years.

Basil Lewela

Senior Research Scientist

Basil Lewela Mashanga hails from Sagalla Hills, an isolated mountain block in the Taita Hills of Kenya, known for its endemic Taita birds and the Sagalla caecilian earthworm. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Science from Kenyatta University, a Diploma in Environmental Science from the Technical University of Mombasa, and a Diploma in Anthropology from the Turkana Basin Institute. Basil's professional background is rooted in conservation and ecology, with extensive experience working alongside communities in natural resource management. From 2014 to 2018, he worked with the Taita Taveta Wildlife Forum as a Project Officer, focusing on the conservation of Taita's endemic birds, forest fragments, and the Sagalla caecilian. He led various conservation initiatives, including beekeeping, handicraft making, sustainable agriculture, fish farming, indigenous tree seedling management, and reforestation. Between 2020 and June 2024, he served as a Curatorial Assistant at the Turkana Basin Institute, managing databases of collected specimens. Additionally, he worked as a Research Assistant, collaborating with researchers in palaeontology and geology. Since joining Action for Cheetahs in Kenya (ACK) in June 2024, Basil has overseen logistics, data management, and report writing for the Samburu base station. He is also responsible for managing staff, outreach efforts, and the canine teams.

Research/Outreach

Technology, research, and outreach promote our mission, enabling us to innovate and connect with our community effectively. By leveraging cutting-edge tools and insights, we enhance our impact and foster meaningful relationships.

Edward Maina

Technology & Operations Manager

Edward Maina joined Action for Cheetahs in Kenya (ACK) in 2024 as a Technical Consultant. He holds a Diploma in Data Analytics using Python and a Bachelor's degree in Environmental Studies from Kenyatta University. While pursuing his M.Sc. in Geospatial Information and Remote Sensing at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Edward gained valuable experience in Object Detection and Machine Learning, particularly in applying these technologies to wildlife crime surveillance in Kenya. With a background in digital marketing & data science, Edward has worked with companies like the Standard Media Group. His experience spans from data analysis to Customer Preference and Feedback Analysis using Machine Learning. Edward is passionate about using data-driven approaches to enhance conservation efforts. At ACK, he contributes by integrating advanced data analytics and geospatial technologies to improve wildlife monitoring and management, ensuring sustainable conservation practices that benefit both wildlife and local communities. Additionally, Edward has a knack for gaming, with over three years of experience in game creation using the Unity Game engine and one game released on Google Play Store. In his free time, Edward enjoys playing football, swimming, and exploring nature through camping.

Timothy Maiyo

Research Field Officer

Timothy is a Research Assistant hired in June 2019 to help Ph.D. student Noreen Mutoro. He was given a full-time position with ACK in March 2020. He holds a Diploma in Wildlife Management from the Kenya Wildlife Service Training Institute (KWSTI). Prior to working with ACK, he interned with Tsavo East National Park in 2017, where he worked with different departments, gaining valuable experience. He also assisted Tsavo Trust in research concerning elephants, hirola, and Grevy's zebras. His work entails accompanying the ACK Scat Dog Detection Team to help in data collection through the recording of weather parameters and collection of scat samples during searches and patrols. Additionally, his ability to communicate effectively is evident in the frequent talks with rangers and scouts from various conservancies concerning cheetah sightings and reports as well as scat sample collection. Timothy uses the information from the rangers to inform ACK field staff concerning cheetah sightings and scat collection in their areas.

Aldina Lekuye

Education & Outreach Coordinator

Aldina Lekuye is an enthusiastic and dedicated Education and Outreach Coordinator at Action for Cheetahs in Kenya. She joined ACK in 2024. Aldina holds a diploma in human resource management and a strong background in field search and human resource management she specializes in community engagement, environmental conservation, and wildlife education. In her role, Aldina designs and implements educational programs that promote awareness and action towards cheetah conservation, environmental conservation, and waste management with a strong commitment. She works closely with local communities, schools, and conservation partners to foster human-wildlife coexistence through Outreach initiatives, capacity building, and hands-on training. Her experience in data analysis and field research gained through collaborations with organizations like the Kenya Red Cross and the Northern Rangeland Trust enhances her ability to develop evidence-based strategies for conservation education. Passionate about environmental stewardship Aldina is committed to inspiring positive change by empowering communities with knowledge and practical solutions for sustainable conservation and ensuring the long-term survival of cheetahs in Kenya. When not working, she enjoys swimming, cooking, playing volleyball and drumming.

K9 Team

The partnership between our handlers and canines is a powerful example of teamwork in action. Together, they combine skills and instincts, fostering a collaborative environment that drives our mission forward and enhances the quality of our research.

Evans Odundo

Program Manager/K9 Handler

Evans Barrak Odundo is an accompilshed certified scat detection dog handler currently the program manager for the scat detection initiative, bringing over a decade of expertise in dog handling and training across multiple disciplines. With a deep-rooted passion for canine development and the natural world, Evans excels in harnessing dogs' remarkable abilities to support conservation efforts. Evans supports the team in managing the logistics and support of training handling and maintenance of the scat detection dog program.

Dominic Loltianya

K9 Handler

Dominic started as an Action for Cheetahs in Kenya Field Officer working in the Mpassion area of Meibae Community Conservancy in July 2018. He completed his education at Loldungókwe Primary and Maralal Hgh School. In his previous work as a field officer, his day consisted of routine patrols, boma monitoring for the Deterrent Lights Project, walking transects, organizing and participating in ACK projects, and activities such as football tournaments and solid waste management. In 2024, Dominic began his transition to the K9 team as a handler.

Lekitasharan Karimba

Lead K9 Handler

Karimba is a dedicated Scat Detection Dog handler with Action for Cheetahs in Kenya (ACK). He first joined the organization as an intern in March 2023 and, due to his commitment and skill, was offered a full-time position in July 2023. A passionate animal lover and environmentalist, Karimba was raised and educated in Samburu County. He aspires to specialize in animal behavior and welfare, continuously enhancing his expertise in dog handling and conservation. In January 2024, he had the opportunity to undertake a training course with K9Conservationist.org, successfully earning a certificate of completion. Through his dedication and growing experience at ACK, Karimba was promoted to K9 Lead Handler, a role in which he continues to make a significant impact in wildlife conservation efforts.

Madi

Senior K9 Detector

Madi is a mix-breed dog with Rottweiler and Border Collie parentage. His name is a shortened version of ‘Madoadoa’ since, as a puppy, he had an array of spots across his chest. His high energy and enthusiasm to work have been major factors that have moved ACK’s research forward. The pioneer dog for the ACK Scat Detection Team Madi has already found scat in a wide variety of terrains throughout the country. Madi was donated to ACK by Paula Kahumbu.

Kelvin Mwambilo

K9 Handler

Kelvin joined ACK as a Field Officer in June 2018 in Malili, within the former Salama study site, where he was born and raised. In 2019, he was promoted to lead ACK’s sports and solid waste management activities. That same year, he represented ACK at the Conservation Conflict Transformation Peace Workshop in Tanzania. After the Salama site closure, Kelvin moved to Samburu as Camp Manager while assisting with field data collection. In March 2023, he pursued an interest in scat dog training, interning alongside camp management. He has since earned certifications in Rabies Community Education, Animal Handling, Canine First Aid & CPR, and Human Basic First Aid. Kelvin holds a graphic design certification from Upeo College and plans to pursue a degree in Wildlife Management and Conservation. His field duties included patrols, transects, vegetation surveys, boma monitoring, and organizing football tournaments for International Cheetah Day. Now a full-time dog handler, Kelvin plays a key role in the National Cheetah Survey.

Persi

K9 Detector

Persephone, or Persi, is a Belgian Malinois that joined the ACK team in June of 2019 when she was 3 months old. Persi's high energy and love of play and obstacles make her a great working dog, while her instinct to sniff out potent scats makes her an excellent addition to the detection dog team. Persephone was donated to ACK by Ultimate K9 Solutions founder George Karavis.

Samburu Field Team

The Samburu field staff are crucial to our mission, working closely with local communities to promote conservation and sustainable practices. Their dedication and expertise ensure the effective implementation of our programs, fostering a harmonious relationship between people and wildlife.

Chris Simon Lentaam

Senior Field Officer

Chris Lentaam was the first ACK staff member hired at the Samburu field site in 2010 and is currently enrolled for a Diploma in Community Development at Mount Kenya University. Together with Cosmas Wambua, Lentaam pioneered the start of research on cheetahs for ACK in Samburu in 2008. His strong drive and ability to identify cheetahs within his area resulted in his employment with ACK. He was born in the Masse region and completed his secondary education at Maralal Boys School. His main roles at ACK are routine patrols, walking transects, interacting with community members on predator education and building better bomas, advising on proper waste management to fellow community members, boma monitoring for the Deterrent Lights project, and mitigating conflicts.

Learkeri Lbitiri

Field Officer

Learkeri began working with Action for Cheetahs in Kenya in 2015 as the Field Officer for the Silango block of Meibae Community Conservancy. He was born and raised in the Silango area where he attended primary school. He also attended Maralal boys school. Learkeri coordinated Phase 3 of the Deterrent Lights Project resulting in over 85% reduction in livestock loss to predators. Learkeri’s work also entails collecting data for ACK through walking transects and routine patrols and educating members of the community on how to build better boma/homesteads as well as matters concerning conservation and wildlife.

Kivoi Lentongoine

Field Officer

Kivoi began working with Action for Cheetahs in Kenya in 2016 as a temporary Research Assistant. He was employed full-time in 2017 as a field officer in his home area of Lpus in the Meibae Community Conservancy. In 2019, he was put in charge of the ACK TakaTaka Project in Meibae. He uses his vast community connections to teach members of his community about the importance of proper solid waste disposal.

Maxwell Lemartile

Field Officer

Maxwell joined the Action for Cheetahs in Kenya staff as a field officer for the Nalepoboo block of Meibae Community Conservancy in July of 2018. He studied at Nomadic pre-school, Lodung'okwe Primary School, and completed his Secondary School Education at Maralal High School. As a field officer, his work entails data collection through routine patrols and walking transects, boma monitoring activities for the Deterrent Lights project, organizing and participating in ACK activities, and educating members of the community on matters pertaining to conservation, solid waste management and wildlife.

Facilities

Our dedicated maintenance staff play a crucial role by ensuring our facilities are safe, efficient, and well-maintained. Their commitment to excellence supports our overall mission and enhances the experience.

Jimmy Muli

Facility Maintenance Nairobi

Jimmy began working as an ACK Field Officer in the Salama area in 2008. After retiring from field work, Jimmy transitioned to Facility Maintenance at our Nairobi compound. Jimmy holds a Diploma in Small Mammal Ecology from the University of Nairobi (Chiromo Campus). He attended Kamuthini Primary School in his hometown of Mukaa, and Machakos High School. After completing his diploma he was employed as a research assistant studying small mammal ecology of spring hares and giant rats for 2 years. He then worked for Kenya Cooperative Creameries (KCC) as a machine plant operator for 17 years. His passion for science and wildlife brought him back to ecology with ACK. Jimmy also manages his own farm, and is active in projects to improve livelihoods and education opportunities in his home community. He sits on several boards, and he is proudly known in his community as ‘The Cheetah Man’.

Seiyan Lolkinyati

Facility Maintenance Samburu

Seiyan began working with Action for Cheetahs in Kenya at the Samburu research camp as a caretaker in 2016. He was born in the Masse block (Sesia area) of the Meibae Community Conservancy. Seiyan acts as a host for interns, volunteers, and students ensuring their needs are met throughout their program with ACK.

Lbulkat Limaro

Facility Maintenance Samburu

Lbulkat is one of the camp caretakers at the ACK Samburu Research Camp, where he started working in July 2017. Lbulkat is from the Sesia area in Meibae Community Conservancy and has a love for nature as well as wild animals. He is always eager to learn more about the animals around him. Prior to working for Action for Cheetahs in Kenya, Lbulkat worked as a security guard in Nairobi and a caretaker at a primary school in his home area.

Consultants

Consultants play a crucial role in our operations by providing expert insights and tailored strategies that drive growth and innovation. Their guidance empowers us to navigate challenges effectively.

Dr. Noreen Mutoro

Research Consultant

Noreen Mutoro has been affiliated with ACK since 2013. Noreen has authored several manuscripts using data collected during her own studies. She assists with other publications using past ACK data and has presented findings in various conferences and forums, both regionally and internationally. She holds a BSc in Wildlife Management and Conservation from the University of Nairobi (UON). Noreen joined our project in 2013 as a Masters student from the UON where she completed a project on the “Assessment of cheetah dietary selection outside protected areas in Salama-Athi Kapiti Plains”. Noreen has participated in training programmes in GIS mapping, genetic analysis, social science surveys and project planning through ESRI, Cheetah Conservation Fund and through university affiliated programmes. Her passion and expertise make her a skilled leader in the National Cheetah Survey team. Noreen has authored several manuscripts using data collected during her own studies. She assists with other publications using past ACK data and has presented findings in various conferences and forums, both regionally and internationally. Over the years, Noreen has developed skills in carnivore dietary analysis through morphological assessment of prey hair, field sample collection of carnivore hair and feces, GIS/ remote sensing, proposal writing, scientific writing, and public speaking. Noreen recently completed her Ph.D. at the University of Salzburg in Austria and is assisting ACK with the National Cheetah Survey.

Dr. Leopold Slotta-Bachmayr

Conservation Canine Consultant

Dr. Leopold Slotta-Bachmayr is a biologist from Austria. He holds a PhD at Salzburg University, specializing in alpine ecology. After working for the Natural History Museum in Salzburg, he was employed as a zoo educator at Zoo Salzburg. Afterwards Leo was responsible for the Welser Tiergarten as a zoological/scientific director. Leo now works as a cynologist training rescue, therapy and species detection dogs. He also runs scientific projects about stress of search dogs, development of scent under the snow or in the soil, police dog training or the abilities of mantrailing dogs. His partner is Sark an Australian Kelpie trained as a rescue dog and for the detection of wild cat and wolf scats as well as for carcasses. Leo supports the ACK K9 team with his knowledge about dog training, dog handling and deployment of dogs.

Dr. Mary Burak

Program Consultant

Dr. Mary Burak originally hails from Boston, USA but has been working as a conservation scientist in Kenya for over 10 years. She obtained her PhD in Ecology and Conservation from Yale University in 2023. Mary specializes in conservation genetics and molecular ecology, and is broadly experienced in applying spatial and molecular tools to support wildlife and landscape management. She has previously studied lion gene flow and connectivity with Lion Landscapes in Laikipia, Kenya, and previously spent years on international projects that monitored and managed disease vectors (rats and tsetse flies). She has been honored with various awards for her work, including the NSF Graduate Research Fellowship, National Geographic Early Career Award, and the P.E.O. Scholar Award during her doctoral studies as well as a Fulbright Scholar Award and Brown University’s Voss Postdoctoral Fellowship for her postdoctoral work. Her research and conservation interests revolve around cross-sectoral collaboration between Kenyan NGOs, scholars, and government institutes to address critical data needs for wildlife conservation across Kenya. This often entails landscape genetics, wildlife diet monitoring, human-wildlife coexistence, habitat restoration. Mary began interacting with ACK in 2021 before joining formally in 2024. She is responsible for overseeing the design and implementation of research methodology, with a focus on data analysis and student advising. She also supports the ACK community through various strategic planning and project framework development, ultimately contributing to overall research coordination.

MEET
THE TEAM

Administration

Research/Outreach

K9 Team

Samburu Field Team

Facilities

Consultants

JOIN THE COALITION!

Contact Us

ADDRESS

PHONE

EMAIL

MEET THE TEAM

Administration

Research/Outreach

K9 Team

Samburu Field Team

Facilities

Consultants

JOIN THE COALITION!

Contact Us

ADDRESS

PHONE

EMAIL

MEET
THE TEAM