With over 15 years of experience in environmental science and conservation, I am proud to lead Nature Conservation Egypt (NCE) as its CEO. At NCE, we are dedicated to preserving and revitalising Egypt’s rich natural heritage and biodiversity. My team and I work closely with government bodies, local communities, the private sector, and international partners to develop and implement effective conservation strategies and projects. In addition to my administrative responsibilities, I am an active researcher at Wageningen University & Research, where I am pursuing a PhD in Bird Migration Ecology. My research explores the impacts of wastewater management and land use on bird populations and migratory behaviour, combining tools such as Google Earth Engine with traditional ecological methods. I am deeply committed to applying scientific insights to strengthen conservation work in Egypt and to tailoring solutions that address the unique environmental challenges faced by non-Western contexts and the global South. I remain driven by the opportunity to shape innovative, sustainable approaches to nature conservation that honour and integrate diverse perspectives and local needs.

Mohamed started his career in Saudi Arabia at a travel agency and worked his way up until he became the branch’s manager. Mohamed then decided to return to Egypt in 2011. Mohamed moved jobs in Egypt until he settled in NCE in 2016. Mohamed feels most connected to the wolf. He believes there are many common traits between the two of them. For example, he finds wolves are mostly misunderstood, as they have a reputation of being 'evil', despite their many good traits; a wolf is kind to its family, it’s even called 'the dutiful son’, and that's a trait Mohamed I proclaims he has in common with the wolf. Mohamed promises he also, like the wolf, sleeps with one closed eye and the other half open!

Mohamed will lead NCE's initiatives to promote sustainable practices in Egypt’s energy sector with a focus on preserving biodiversity and natural habitats. This includes managing specific projects such as the biodiversity offset strategies in the wind farms, advocating for national conservation strategies, and leading efforts to minimize the environmental impact of renewable energy projects.

Youmna El Sherbiny was born and raised in Cairo. She studied Integrated Marketing and Communications in the American University in Cairo. El Sherbiny has diverse work experiences with governmental and non governmental entities that extended her work to communications, branding, consulting and brand management. El Sherbiny also studied Psychology and Sociology as university studies which grew her to link between communications and marketing and community work and people.

Watter AlBahry is an environmental researcher and ornithologist with expertise dating back to 2000, and a wildlife documentary photographer since 2005. He has also worked as a programme designer and bird guide since 2010. AlBahry joined Nature Conservation Egypt (NCE) in 2009 as a member and freelance researcher, and currently serves as a Senior Conservation Officer. Beyond his environmental endeavours, Watter is a seasoned photography instructor, having led numerous workshops and lectures in wildlife, travel, and documentary photography. His work has been featured in prestigious publications such as National Geographic, National Geographic Youth Magazine – Arabic Edition, BirdLife International, UNDP, BirdWatch Magazine, Los Angeles Times, BBC Wildlife Magazine, African Bird Club, Sandgrouse, and Wild Planet Magazine. Watter’s commitment to both conservation and the art of photography makes him a prominent figure in environmental research and wildlife documentation.

Conservation Science Officer Nadia Sherif serves as a Conservation Science Officer at Nature Conservation Egypt (NCE). She holds a BSc in Ecology and Conservation Biology from the University of Sheffield and is dedicated to advancing science-based conservation initiatives that support the protection of Egypt’s unique biodiversity and natural heritage. Following her studies, Nadia returned to Egypt driven by a strong commitment to contributing to the conservation of the country’s ecosystems and wildlife. Growing up in Alexandria, where the Mediterranean Sea was a constant presence in her daily life, she developed an early appreciation for nature and the importance of maintaining ecological balance. Her passion for conservation was further inspired by a lifelong fascination with wildlife and environmental storytelling, motivating her to pursue a career focused on safeguarding biodiversity and promoting sustainable coexistence between people and nature

Qamar El Qady is a science communicator, conservation practitioner, and interdisciplinary researcher. She serves as Communications Officer at Nature Conservation Egypt. Her work combines biodiversity monitoring — from raptor migration counts to waterbird censuses — with sci-comm, education, and awareness-raising, contributing to both data-driven science and community connection. With a foundation and an excellence with honors degree in language and communications, in addition to liberal arts and social sciences.

Ashraf holds a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Sciences, Botany Department, Aswan University. He has worked in multiple desert gardens and have learnt how to preserve rare species and benefit from them. Throughout his work, he joined the Red Sea Project and learnt more about marine life through theoretical and practical studies. We are happy to have Ashraf join our team and help us grow our first Native Tree Nursery.

Mohamed Daoud is NCE’s oldest team member, everyone always says that when they started working at NCE, Abo Daoud was there. Now, it’s time to spot the light on him and his story! Daoud says he was born in Nagaa Hammadi, Qena, but his family moved to Cairo when he was only two months old where he was raised and continued to study and work. Abou Daoud started working in the construction business, in all its fields until he learned everything to then drop it a while after. Abo Daoud said he didn't feel he belonged until he found NCE.” Abo Daoud fell in love with nature in general , and birds in particular especially after he started going on birdwatching trips. “The team made me love the place. I found them like birds, with light hearts, just like sparrows. They treated me like a brother, not just a mere coworker, and that made me want to stay here till the end of my life. I feel that this is my home and where I belong.” In general, Abo Daoud’s most special animal is the Camel. For him, he is a symbol of patience and endurance. But, as a bird lover, he told us that his favorite bird is the White Wagtail. He always sees it in his neighborhood and he finds it playful. “The Wagtail isn’t easy, it keeps jumping around which gives off the impression it feels safe, but once you approach it, it quickly flies away.” Next to the Camel and the White Wagtail, and probably prior to them, Abo Daoud’s love for his coworkers is the biggest thing in his heart. We love you too Abo Daoud!