Tulshi Laxmi SUWAL

Dr. Tulshi Laxmi Suwal is one of the recipients of the prestigious "Whitley Fund for Nature (WFN)" Award 2023, which is referred to as the "Green Oscar" for conservation. She is a member of the IUCN SSC Pangolin Specialist Group and serves as the Focal Point for World Pangolin Day. Dr. Suwal is also recognized as a Pangolin Champion for her outstanding contributions to pangolin conservation in Nepal.

Dr. Suwal is the Co-Founder and former President of the non-profit, non-government organization, "Small Mammals Conservation and Research Foundation (SMCRF)", where she currently serves as Program Coordinator. Over 17 years, she has been dedicated to the conservation of Nepal's most overlooked and least known mammals, particularly, she is focused on threatened pangolins and their habitats.  All her efforts are carried out in close collaboration with local communities and conservation stakeholders, ensuring active participation and shared ownership.

Her work goes beyond groundbreaking, evidence-based scientific research; it embraces a holistic, community-driven model of conservation. This includes combating illegal wildlife trade, restoring and enriching terrestrial ecosystems, promoting education and outreach, and empowering youth, women, and local and indigenous communities through sustainable livelihood initiatives. By bridging science, policy, grassroots actions, culture, and the economy, she is not only securing a future for Nepal’s pangolins but also inspiring the next generation of conservationists and ensuring lasting benefits for both biodiversity and people.