August 2010

 

For many university graduates, the summer months provide a break from intensive field work, research, and studies; a time to reflect on past achievements and set goals for the future. But for IFP Fellow Angela Yanfang Cun, this summer is busier than ever.

 

Following her graduation in June from Clark University – where she received a master’s degree in Environmental Science and Policy – Angela accepted a job with RARE Conservation, an NGO whose mission is to preserve ecosystems worldwide through social marketing and education. In July, she became a Pride Program Manager for Rare initiatives in her home country of China.

 

“This job provides one-on-one mentoring and technical support to local conservation leaders,” explains Angela.

 

As part of her two-year commitment to the project, she’ll be training fellow environmental leaders on conservation theory, research methodologies, social marketing, and project management – and that’s just during the first five months. After that, Angela says, “I’ll be conducting periodic visits to program sites around the world, along with regular coaching, mentoring, and distance support.”

 

Rare Conservation approached Angela Yanfang back in 2006 after working with her in the Yunnan Province on a joint project with The Nature Conservancy.  She had led the campaign with great success. “Rare offered me this position at that time,” she says, “but I was ready to get my education.”

 

Now Angela is back in China, training, lecturing and helping new campaign managers report their latest findings.

 

Click here to learn more about Angela's work on the 2003 Laojunshan Pride Campaign in the Yunnan Province.