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6 years 57 partnerships
Only through our partnerships with 57 incredible organisations Wildlife.ai has been able to combine local expertise, science, community and AI to make strides in biodiversity monitoring and conservation.
My goal for these sessions was to show that AI is more than just technology; it’s a powerful tool for protecting and preserving our environment. I emphasized that kaitiakitanga is about actions, not just words—true guardianship requires meaningful steps.

The Wildlife.ai and Te Papa Atawhai team set up the Wildlife Watchers on the field.
Starting Wildlife.ai has been one of the most rewarding yet challenging paths I’ve ever walked. When we set out to build a charity that accelerates wildlife conservation through the use of AI, I knew it would take time and effort. However, back then, I didn’t fully grasp how much of the journey would rely on building meaningful relationships with other organisations, communities and people.
Building strong partnerships isn’t quick or easy. They require trust, and trust takes time. In our journey, there have been moments when I wondered if we were moving too slowly, or if we were asking for too much. But with every project, I’ve come to understand that deep, meaningful partnerships aren’t built overnight—they’re grown, nurtured, and earned.
When asked why partnerships matter, the answer often centres on amplifying expertise, empowering communities, and driving innovation. For me, environmental conservation projects thrive if locals care about their environment and are involved in their preservation/restoration.
This idea resonates deeply with the Māori proverb: He aha te mea nui o te ao? He tāngata, he tāngata, he tāngata—the most important thing in the world is people. It reminds us that conservation is not just about technology or data but the relationships that sustain our efforts.

The growth of Wildlife.ai partnerships from 2019 to 2024.
We have been reflecting on our partners, who despite their initial concerns, fully understood our vision and supported us towards using tech for environmental conservation. Through these partnerships, we have been able to combine expertise from local communities, scientists, and tech innovators to deliver groundbreaking advancements in biodiversity monitoring.
Over the years, we’ve collaborated with 57 incredible organisations. Each one has taught me invaluable lessons, brought moments of shared joy, and constantly fills me with pride as I watch them succeed in their journeys.
To those who’ve walked this path with us: thank you. Your belief in Wildlife.ai’s vision, your patience, and your commitment have been the foundation of everything we’ve achieved.
To anyone who shares our commitment to a better future, let’s connect and work together to build, grow, and dream big.


