Renewed Collaboration Strengthens the Future of Lao Youth in Conservation

The future of nature conservation in Laos shines even brighter as Association Anoulak and EconoxLaos join forces once again to advance the impactful Lao Youth on a Mission for Nature Conservation program. Launched in 2024 by Association Anoulak with the generous support of donors, this initiative is dedicated to inspiring and equipping the next generation of Lao conservationists with the skills and networks they need to safeguard their country’s rich biodiversity.

A Foundation for Future Conservation Leaders

Last year, the program successfully brought together young Lao conservation enthusiasts for two weeks of intensive training and networking events. These sessions covered a wide array of critical topics in nature conservation, facilitated by esteemed conservation and capacity-building partners. Participants gained hands-on experience, knowledge, and connections that would help them pave a path in the sector, ensuring that conservation efforts continue to be driven by local expertise and passion.

A New Phase: Sustainability Through Collaboration

Recognizing the importance of long-term sustainability, this renewed partnership with EconoxLaos, a Lao civil society social enterprise dedicated to fostering sustainable lifestyles, marks an essential step forward. Through this collaboration, the program will transition to being implemented by a Lao institution, ensuring that its impact extends beyond short-term interventions. Association Anoulak and its sponsors will continue to provide guidance and support, reinforcing the program’s success while allowing for greater local ownership and leadership in its execution.

This collaboration with EconoxLaos was made official with the signature of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) earlier this month, solidifying our shared commitment to strengthening conservation efforts in Laos.

2025: A Focus on Career Readiness

This year, in 2025, the program will put a particular focus on fresh graduates who are ready to enter the job market. In addition to conservation training, we will provide coaching on career development, including guidance on the interview process, professional profiles, CV preparation, and networking strategies. Furthermore, we will coordinate with our partner organizations in Laos to facilitate volunteer opportunities, internships, and job placements for program participants, ensuring that they have a clear path toward meaningful careers in conservation.

With EconoxLaos and Association Anoulak providing continued support, the program is poised for an exciting new chapter. We will advertise the application process on social media in the coming weeks, opening the selection process for up to 30 Lao individuals eager to start their careers in nature conservation. The program will be implemented over two weeks in July 2025.

As we move forward, we invite conservation partners, donors, and stakeholders to continue supporting this initiative, ensuring that Lao youth remain at the heart of conservation efforts in their homeland.

Together, we are shaping the future of biodiversity conservation in Laos—one young conservationist at a time.

Why This Matters

Laos is home to some of the world’s most unique and endangered wildlife, including the Saola, red-shanked douc, and Owston’s civet. Protecting these species and their habitats requires a dedicated and well-equipped workforce. By nurturing the aspirations of young Lao conservationists, the Lao Youth on a Mission for Nature Conservation program ensures that the country’s natural heritage remains in the hands of those who cherish and understand it the most.

This renewed collaboration is not just about education; it’s about empowering a movement. By investing in the future generation of conservationists, we are building a stronger, more resilient conservation network led by Lao professionals who will drive impactful change for years to come.

Cohort 2024