What was the initiative? 

Alicia’s initiative was an education program for Maasai communities in Tanzanian Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs). The initiative aimed to increase awareness of wildlife conservation, environmental management, and community decision-making regarding natural resources. Through workshops in four sub-villages, community members – particularly those with little formal education – were given a platform to learn about the benefits and challenges of WMAs and how to participate in their governance. The initiative provided accessible, trusted information to ensure that Maasai community members understood their rights and responsibilities in conservation efforts while maintaining control over their land and livelihoods.  

What was the community connection? 

For three years prior to the Fellowship, Alicia worked closely with a local organization called Sauti Moja Tanzania, which focused on providing health and education opportunities for Maasai in the Longido District of Northern Tanzania.  

How was it innovative? 

Alicia’s initiative was innovative because it used a participatory and culturally sensitive approach to learning. Instead of imposing external knowledge, the program fostered transformative learning, enabling Maasai participants – especially women – to engage In discussions and gain confidence in decision-making. The initiative also adapted the ASPIRE model, a methodology emphasizing experiential learning and community-led development. By focusing on interactive workshops and using local facilitators, the initiative created a sustainable model for education that could be replicated in other WMAs. Additionally, it challenged gender norms by encouraging Maasai women to voice their opinions in traditionally male-dominated discussions, leading to increased female participation in leadership roles.  

What is Alicia doing now?  

Alicia works as a Senior Advisor of Indigenous Community Relations and Partnership Engagement for the BC Ministry of Emergency Management and Climate Readiness.