The University of Cambridge Masters in Conservation Leadership has been selected to join the Global Environment Facility's Fonseca Leadership Program, a prestigious international initiative supporting the next generation of conservation leaders from around the world.
The Masters in Conservation Leadership, based in Cambridge's Department of Geography, has been selected to join the scheme, which launched in 2024 with partnerships spanning leading conservation organisations including the Wildlife Conservation Society, WWF, and universities across Africa, Asia, Latin America and Oceania.
Named in memory of Gustavo Fonseca (1956-2022), the GEF's former Director of Programmes who dedicated his career to biodiversity conservation, the fellowship programme addresses the specific needs of conservation professionals from GEF recipient countries, which are primarily in the Global South.
The Masters in Conservation Leadership will award two Fonseca Fellowships annually across three academic years (2025-26, 2026-27, and 2027-28), supporting outstanding emerging leaders with full funding for their masters studies. Additionally, the programme will fund three-month leadership internships for students after they complete their masters degree. Fellows will be selected from the programme's offer-holders who are resident in GEF recipient countries and who would otherwise be unable to afford the course, with the first Fonseca Fellows beginning their studies in October 2025.
"It is a great honour for us to be part of this group of outstanding programmes that have been recognised by the GEF," said Professor Chris Sandbrook, Director of the Masters in Conservation Leadership. "We are also proud to be part of celebrating the legacy of Gustavo Fonseca, who was instrumental in elevating environmental concerns to the centre of discussions around sustainable development and social equity."
Photo credit: GEF/Christian Hofer
Gustavo Fonseca was renowned for inspiring and supporting the next generation of conservationists throughout his distinguished career. As Director of Programs at the GEF, he oversaw investments of over $10 billion in environmental projects across developing countries and shaped international environmental policy through his work with implementing agencies and UN negotiations.
The Cambridge Masters in Conservation Leadership brings together emerging conservation leaders from around the world to learn from leading researchers and practitioners. The programme combines rigorous academic training with practical experience, preparing graduates to tackle urgent environmental challenges in their home countries and regions.