Over and Above Africa: Company Profile

Background

Mission and Vision

Over and Above Africa is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and defending endangered wildlife across Africa and supporting the communities impacted by these species. The organization focuses on funding and mentoring local initiatives that often fall outside the scope of larger wildlife organizations, aiming to empower communities and improve conditions for both villagers and wildlife.

Primary Area of Focus and Industry Significance

Established in 2017, Over and Above Africa addresses critical issues such as poaching and human-wildlife conflict, which threaten the survival of Africa's iconic species. By supporting grassroots projects, the organization plays a significant role in conservation efforts, contributing to the broader wildlife protection industry.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

• Wildlife Protection: Fund and support initiatives that safeguard endangered species from poaching and habitat loss.

• Community Empowerment: Enhance the livelihoods of communities living alongside wildlife through education and sustainable practices.

• Awareness and Advocacy: Raise global awareness about conservation challenges and promote active participation in wildlife protection.

Specific Areas of Specialization

• Anti-Poaching Initiatives: Providing resources and support to anti-poaching units and conservationists.

• Community Education: Implementing educational programs to foster coexistence between humans and wildlife.

• Wildlife Rehabilitation: Supporting the rehabilitation and relocation of injured or orphaned animals.

Key Technologies Utilized

• Drones: Deploying aerial surveillance to monitor wildlife and detect poaching activities.

• Telemetry Systems: Utilizing GPS tracking to monitor animal movements and ensure their safety.

• Community Engagement Platforms: Leveraging digital tools to educate and involve local communities in conservation efforts.

Primary Markets or Conditions Targeted

Over and Above Africa operates across various African countries, focusing on regions where wildlife is under threat due to poaching, habitat destruction, and human-wildlife conflict. The organization collaborates with local communities, conservationists, and other stakeholders to address these challenges.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

As a non-profit organization, Over and Above Africa relies on donations from a global community to fund its initiatives. Membership plans start at $5 per month, making it accessible for a wide audience to contribute to wildlife conservation efforts.

Total Funds Raised

In its first year, the organization successfully raised over $19,000, which was allocated to various conservation projects, including support for anti-poaching units and wildlife rehabilitation centers.

Notable Investors

As a non-profit, Over and Above Africa does not have traditional investors. Instead, it is supported by individual donors and members who contribute to its mission.

Intended Utilization of Capital

The funds raised are directed towards:

• Supporting Anti-Poaching Units: Providing necessary equipment and resources to combat poaching activities.

• Community Education Programs: Funding educational initiatives to promote sustainable coexistence between humans and wildlife.

• Wildlife Rehabilitation: Assisting in the rehabilitation and relocation of injured or orphaned animals.

Pipeline Development

Over and Above Africa focuses on a diverse range of projects aimed at wildlife conservation and community support. Notable initiatives include:

• Wild & Free Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, Mpumalanga, South Africa: Building a state-of-the-art wildlife rehabilitation center to support injured and orphaned animals.

• Human/Wildlife Conflict Mitigation in Uganda: Implementing strategies to reduce conflicts between elephants and local communities, promoting peaceful coexistence.

• Educational Programs in Rwanda: Planting avocado trees and introducing local school children to regional wildlife through educational programs.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Over and Above Africa employs various technologies to enhance its conservation efforts, including:

• Aerial Surveillance: Utilizing drones for monitoring wildlife and detecting poaching activities.

• GPS Tracking: Implementing telemetry systems to track animal movements and ensure their safety.

Significant Scientific Methods

The organization employs scientific methods such as telemetry and aerial surveillance to monitor wildlife populations and poaching activities, ensuring effective conservation strategies.

Leadership Team

Kerry David, Founder & CEO

Kerry David is a multiple award-winning producer and director with over 25 years of experience in the film industry. She founded Over and Above Africa in 2017 after learning about the poaching crisis in Africa. Kerry is also the director and producer of the award-winning documentary "Breaking Their Silence: Women on the Frontline of the Poaching War."

Philip Folsom, Staff Photographer and Explorer in Residence

Philip Folsom is a cultural anthropologist, instructor, and veteran of the United States Army. He serves as the staff photographer and Explorer in Residence for Over and Above Africa, contributing his expertise in photography and exploration to the organization's mission.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The wildlife conservation sector in Africa is characterized by numerous non-profit organizations and governmental agencies working to protect endangered species and their habitats. The market is dynamic, with increasing collaboration among stakeholders and a growing emphasis on community involvement in conservation efforts.

Competitor Analysis

Over and Above Africa operates in a competitive landscape with several organizations dedicated to wildlife conservation. Key competitors include:

• International Anti-Poaching Foundation (IAPF): Founded by Damien Mander, IAPF focuses on training and deploying anti-poaching units, including the all-female unit Akashinga.

• Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary: Established by Petronel Nieuwoudt, this sanctuary is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and release of rhinos affected by poaching.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Over and Above Africa collaborates with various organizations to enhance its conservation efforts, including:

• One Tree Planted: Partnering to plant trees for every new member, supporting biodiversity and community development.

• International Anti-Poaching Foundation (IAPF): Collaborating to support anti-poaching initiatives and empower local communities.

Operational Insights

Over and Above Africa differentiates itself by focusing on grassroots initiatives and community empowerment, ensuring that conservation efforts are sustainable and locally supported. The organization’s unique approach includes creating mini-documentaries of each project to share with donors, providing transparency and fostering a deeper connection between supporters and the initiatives they fund.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Strategic Roadmap

Over and Above Africa plans to expand its reach by:

• Increasing Membership: Encouraging more individuals to join and support conservation efforts through affordable membership plans.

• Enhancing Community Programs: Developing and funding more educational and empowerment programs for communities living alongside wildlife.

• Strengthening Partnerships: Building stronger collaborations with other conservation organizations and stakeholders to amplify impact.

Future Business Directions

The organization aims to:

• Expand Geographical Reach: Support conservation projects in additional African countries facing wildlife threats.

• Diversify Funding Sources: Explore new avenues for funding, including corporate partnerships and grants, to sustain and grow its initiatives.

• Leverage Technology: Implement advanced technologies for monitoring wildlife and enhancing conservation strategies.

Opportunities for Expansion

Over and Above Africa has the opportunity to:

• Engage a Global Audience: Utilize digital platforms to raise awareness and attract support from a worldwide community.

• Influence Policy: Advocate for stronger wildlife protection laws and policies at national and international levels.

• Foster Innovation: Encourage innovative solutions to conservation challenges through research and development.

Contact Information

Official Website

Over and Above Africa

Social Media Profiles

• Facebook: Over And Above Africa