Camille Coudrat
About yourself
I founded Association Anoulak dedicated to biodiversity conservation in the Annamite Mountains of Laos. As the director of the association I have developed, managed, implemented and supported our programs with a team of Lao nationals, covering biodiversity research and monitoring; anti-poaching patrols; conservation education and community
sustainable livelihoods in in Nakai-Nam Theun National Park.
My research projects have focused on endemic, little-studied and the most threatened species of the Annamites Mountains including red-shanked douc, white-cheeked gibbon, large-antlered muntjac, Annamite dark muntjac, Owston’s civet, otters, Otters, Asian Elephants.
What inspired you to start working in the field of conservation?
I have always had a natural interest for animals in nature growing up. When I was a teenager, one of my role model was Jane Goodall, the famous primatologist who studied chimpanzees in Africa, and wanted to become like her! So this is quite naturally that I decided to study biology and primate conservation. My first few years conducting field work experience in Cambodia and Laos as a Masters and then PhD student was a revelation for me. I absolutly loved it! But it also made me realize how incredibly fast species can dissapear due to the illegal hunting driven by the wildlife trade demand. This is what pushed me to set up my organization to dedicate my life to conservation in Asia.
What are some of the rewards working in conservation?
What never fails to bring me back to my sense of purpose is to be in the field, in the lush forests observing the beauty of nature, watching animals living their life, showing and reminding me what I am fighting for. Spending time with the local communities to see the world from their perspective, observing their smiles, their generosity despite living a humble and challenging life. Witnessing the traditional knowledge and skills of the local communities that is carried on to the next generations. Working with the youth who are full of creativity and want to change the world in a better way! and all the anecdotal positive feedbacks we get from communities, partners and colleagues!
What does being part of the ASAP Women in Conservation Leadership network mean to you?
As conservationists, we often can feel isolated and in conservation, what is communicated are only the positive actions and impacts, but rarely do people understand what is behind the scene of conservation. Being part of the ASAP Women in Conservation Leadership network is where we can openly, with no judgement speak and share about each other’s experiences, challenges, and success stories. It is where we can support each other because we all understand what we go through.