Leadership Team
![Ms Helena Atkinson (MA - Science)](https://www.wessa.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Helena-Atkinson.jpg)
Ms Helena Atkinson (MA - Science)
Non-executive Director
Helena has her Masters in Science, along with comprehensive experience at both national and regional levels in the fields of environmental and wildlife conservation and education. She is the Director of the Pangolin Trust and a cross-border safari business.
Helena worked as the Social Ecologist for Wilderness Safaris, Africa’s largest ecotourism operator, and was previously a General Manager and Executive Committee member of WESSA. She has experience in the management of biodiversity, water, community, and education programmes and projects throughout the SADC region.
Her research involved an important South African study in the growth of the concept of “socio-ecological systems” and their role in protected area management and development. She is also experienced in small business concepts and fundraising.