Meet the Team

PRESIDENT AND FOUNDER

IN-COUNTRY DIRECTOR

Conservation Project in Epulu. With no formal background in wildlife care, she began working hands-on with wild-caught okapis, quickly developing a deep connection to these remarkable and elusive animals.

Over the course of 38 years, her dedication, compassion, and resilience helped shape the foundation and growth of WCG/OCP. Through all the challenges and milestones, she has remained unwavering in her commitment—placing the okapi at the center of her life's work. Her story is one of love, perseverance, and lasting impact in the world of wildlife conservation.

ADMINISTRATION & FINANCE OFFICER

With over 36 years of dedicated service to nature conservation, Mutahinga Mumbere Eleme is one of the longest-serving members of the Okapi Conservation Project. He began his journey in Epulu in 1989 as a zookeeper, where he developed a deep bond with the okapi—most memorably with an individual named Tatu, whom he gently habituated to human presence.

Mutahinga's passion and leadership have guided his rise through the ranks, from Head Zookeeper to Administrative Director, Senior Warden Officer with ICCN, and currently, Administration and Finance Officer at WCG. He has trained staff in animal care, managed project logistics, overseen personnel, and led financial operations—all with unwavering commitment. His legacy includes not only decades of conservation service, but also a heartfelt dedication to the protection of the okapi and the preservation of the Epulu ecosystem.

DIRECTOR OF CONSERVATION

EDUCATION COORDINATOR

Jean Paul began his conservation journey in 2001 as a ranger with ICCN in the Okapi Wildlife Reserve, where he led anti-poaching patrols and served as a guide and law enforcement monitor. In 2010, he was awarded a WCN scholarship to study Environment and Sustainable Development, earning his bachelor’s degree in 2013.

Since joining the Okapi Conservation Project in 2014, Jean Paul has risen from educator to Program Coordinator, leading conservation education efforts across the region. He oversees planning, implementation, and reporting of awareness campaigns designed to engage communities in protecting the okapi and its habitat. Inspired by a childhood visit to the Epulu Zoo, his lifelong passion for conservation continues to guide his work in safeguarding this iconic species.

INFRASTRUCTURE COORDINATOR

AGROFORESTRY COORDINATOR

Born in the hills of North Kivu, Emmanuel has dedicated his life to sustainable agriculture and environmental protection. With a lifelong passion for botany, he pursued agricultural studies through university and began his career supporting organic seed production and reforestation efforts.

Since joining the Okapi Conservation Project in 2000, Emmanuel has worked closely with local farming communities to reduce deforestation through sustainable agroforestry practices. His efforts help preserve the forest—the natural habitat of the okapi—and support livelihoods that are in harmony with conservation goals.

HEALTHCARE COORDINATOR

Born in Ngandanjika and trained in both science and philosophy, Jean Claude Mulowayi Katalayi, holds degrees in Biology, Chemistry, and Nursing. Since 2003, he has served as the dedicated nurse for the Okapi Conservation Project, providing critical healthcare and emergency support to field teams working in some of the most remote and challenging environments of the Epulu region.

His work ensures the safety, health, and resilience of conservation staff and community members by delivering first aid, managing tropical diseases, promoting hygiene, and offering psychosocial support.

ASSISTANT ACCOUNTANT

Born in Butembo, Julien holds a degree in Commercial, Administrative, and Financial Sciences with a specialization in Accounting. Since joining the Okapi Conservation Project, he has played a vital role in ensuring financial transparency, donor compliance, and strategic fund management.

His responsibilities include maintaining detailed financial records, managing grants from international and private donors, preparing audit materials, and advising on financial strategy. With his expertise, Julien helps safeguard the financial integrity of the project, ensuring that resources are used effectively to support ICCN’s mission to protect the Okapi Wildlife Reserve and its rich biodiversity.

LOGISTICIAN

Sagesse Mombenga is a trained agricultural engineer with a degree in water, forestry, and natural resource management from the University of Kisangani. With over three years of experience in conservation, he has worked with both national and international NGOs, including key roles within the Okapi Wildlife Reserve.

Currently serving as a logistician for the Okapi Conservation Project in Epulu, Sagesse brings strong leadership, local knowledge, and a deep commitment to sustainable resource management. Fluent in Lingala, Swahili, and French, he is a passionate advocate for community involvement in conservation, working to protect ecosystems while fostering positive, lasting change.

ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER

Larkin Johansen is a passionate conservationist and dedicated Administrative Officer at the Okapi Conservation Project. With a strong background in animal care, she previously served as Senior Bird Keeper at Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens and sits on the Advisory Board for the Marine Science Research Institute at Jacksonville University. Larkin combines administrative expertise with a deep commitment to wildlife preservation, helping bridge fieldwork and outreach.

MARKETING/COMMUNICATIONS

Kelly Russo holds a degree in Wildlife and Fisheries Science with a focus on ecology from Texas A&M University. With over 20 years of experience in marketing and communications, she has dedicated her career to advancing the mission of wildlife conservation.

Kelly has led impactful storytelling and outreach initiatives for esteemed organizations including the Houston Zoo, International Rhino Foundation, Houston Museum of Natural Science, and IUCN Tapir Specialist Group. Her work bridges science and public engagement, helping to raise awareness and inspire action for the world’s most endangered species.

DEVELOPMENT AND FUNDRAISING