Celebrating Conservation Champions: Announcing the 2025 GCF Award Recipients

 

Since our 3rd Gala in 2017, the Wildlife Guardian Award has honored extraordinary individuals making a real difference in wildlife conservation. More recently, starting in 2024, the Conservation Warrior Award has recognized those whose critical behind-the-scenes work drives conservation success around the world. Each year, our Gala celebrates the diversity of roles and efforts that protect wildlife, habitats, and communities.

 

This year, we are thrilled to announce the recipients of our prestigious awards:

Wildlife Guardian Award: Dr. William Fowlds, ARCC

 

The Wildlife Guardian Award is the highest honor bestowed annually by Global Conservation Force, given to one individual or organization who has demonstrated unparalleled leadership, commitment, and impact in wildlife conservation. Recipients of this award have often gone above and beyond in protecting endangered species and their habitats, leaving a profound and lasting influence on the natural world.

 

We are proud to honor Dr. William Fowlds, founder of the African Rhino Conservation Collaboration (ARCC), as this year’s Wildlife Guardian Award recipient.

 

Over more than a decade, Dr. Fowlds has shown extraordinary dedication to rhino conservation, working with dozens of organizations, reserves, stakeholders, and countries to safeguard these iconic species. As a wildlife veterinarian, he has pioneered innovative approaches to veterinary care in the field, integrating advanced technology and creating programs that save countless lives. His work extends beyond rhinos to champion biodiversity, One Health, and habitat conservation, always considering the critical role of local communities in preserving ecosystems.

 

Dr. Fowlds’ mentorship and guidance have inspired hundreds of conservationists, ensuring the next generation is well-prepared to continue the fight to protect wildlife. His ability to work with precision, integrity, and warmth has made conservation accessible, educational, and collaborative for all involved.

 

It is an honor for Global Conservation Force to recognize Dr. Fowlds’ remarkable achievements with the Wildlife Guardian Award at our 10th Annual Gala.

Conservation Warrior Award: STM Studios, Japan

 

The Conservation Warrior Award celebrates individuals and organizations whose efforts have significantly advanced conservation, whether in the field, in program development, education, fundraising, administrative work, or partnership relations. This award recognizes the critical contributions of those working behind the scenes to protect wildlife and ecosystems, demonstrating that conservation success relies on a diverse team of committed advocates.

 

We are delighted to present the 2025 Conservation Warrior Award to STM Studios of Japan.

For years, STM Studios has generously supported Global Conservation Force through their artistry, contributing in-kind work that has fueled our education outreach, conservation apparel, and annual gala fundraising initiatives. Their beautiful and creative artwork has not only raised essential funds but also inspired communities and helped tell the story of global wildlife conservation in compelling, meaningful ways.

 

Through their unwavering commitment, STM Studios has become a vital part of the GCF family, demonstrating that creativity, passion, and dedication are as crucial to conservation as work in the field. This award honors their years of contribution, innovation, and steadfast support for wildlife and natural habitats worldwide.

Honoring Over a Decade of Excellence

 

Global Conservation Force began its first operations in 2012, was filed as a nonprofit in 2014, and became a 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit organization in 2015. Since our 3rd Gala in 2017, GCF has celebrated leaders, visionaries, and supporters who exemplify the spirit of conservation. The Wildlife Guardian Award has highlighted extraordinary field leadership, while the Conservation Warrior Award, introduced in 2024, recognizes those whose essential contributions behind the scenes amplify conservation efforts worldwide.

 

This year, we are proud to honor both Dr. William Fowlds and STM Studios—one for unparalleled leadership in the field, and the other for enduring and creative support that strengthens conservation efforts globally. Their dedication reminds us all that protecting wildlife and ecosystems requires innovation, collaboration, and heart.

 

Please join us in celebrating these extraordinary conservation champions at the 10th Annual Global Conservation Force Gala, where we will recognize their remarkable contributions to our shared mission.

2025 Gala - Click Here