Damien Mander: Wildlife Conservation

  • Australian Defence Force and Clearance Diver Training: Overcame rigorous training to become a Clearance Diver, emphasizing physical and mental resilience.
  • Special Operations Sniper: Served in an elite counter-terrorism unit post-September 11, developing strategic thinking and situational awareness.
  • Founder of IAPF: Transitioned to wildlife conservation, founding the International Anti-Poaching Foundation, showcasing adaptability and a commitment to global causes.
  • Influential Speaker: Delivers engaging talks across sectors, connecting with audiences through compelling storytelling and real-world insights, inspiring change and action.

Travel & Fee Range:**

  • Travels from: Zimbabwe
  • **Fee range: $20,001 - $35,000
5/5
5/5 (1 reviews)

Keynote Topics

  • Follow your passion to live your dream: How giving up everything, and breaking away from societies’ expectation can set you free to fulfil your true destiny
     
  • Conservation, Adventure & Leadership: From 12 tours of Iraq and travel through more than 60 countries, Damien can recount numerous tales, lessons and methods to overcome many obstacles that life can throw at you
     
  • Destroying fear of failure: Conquering a fear of failure to graduate through some of the world’s most arduous military selection phases can only come with the acceptance of mistakes along the way. Some fatal. These are the school fees of life, not failure
     
  • Entrepreneurial spirit & raw grit: If you chose not to follow anyone’s dreams but your own, it will require two things above all else: The belief that your concept is different and can effect change and the refusal to give up on making it reach its full potential.
     
  • Overcoming adversity in hostile environments: The ability to operate a multinational organisation across three continents, with multiple cultures, languages and often in a hostile environment is not an online lesson or something university can prepare us

Damien Mander is a globally renowned wildlife conservationist, founder of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation (IAPF), and a motivational keynote speaker whose transformative life story inspires audiences around the world. From his beginnings as a garbage collector in Melbourne to serving as a Clearance Diver in the Australian Defence Force, Damien’s journey is a testament to […]

Damien Mander is a globally renowned wildlife conservationist, founder of the International Anti-Poaching Foundation (IAPF), and a motivational keynote speaker whose transformative life story inspires audiences around the world. From his beginnings as a garbage collector in Melbourne to serving as a Clearance Diver in the Australian Defence Force, Damien’s journey is a testament to resilience, courage, and an unyielding commitment to safeguarding the planet’s most vulnerable species.

With 20 years of diverse experience spanning military operations, wildlife conservation, and environmental advocacy, Damien has become an authoritative voice in conservation and a sought-after speaker for corporate, academic, and global forums.

Damien Mander | Wildlife Conservation

Damien Mander’s expertise lies at the intersection of wildlife conservation, leadership, and resilience. His extensive knowledge stems from his unique career trajectory—from military special operations to leading anti-poaching initiatives. As a Clearance Diver and Tactical Assault Group member in the Australian military, Damien honed his skills in strategy, leadership, and crisis management under extreme conditions. Post-service, he leveraged this expertise to establish the IAPF, one of the world’s leading organizations in anti-poaching and conservation, which now protects millions of acres of African wilderness.

Damien has been instrumental in developing innovative conservation strategies, including the world’s first all-female anti-poaching unit, Akashinga, which empowers women to protect wildlife while uplifting local communities. His deep understanding of human-wildlife dynamics, environmental sustainability, and community engagement underscores his ability to address critical conservation challenges and inspire action.

Damien Mander’s qualifications in wildlife conservation are rooted in his extensive on-the-ground experience and groundbreaking initiatives. After transitioning from a distinguished military career, Damien spent years immersing himself in the challenges of wildlife preservation in Africa. He witnessed firsthand the devastating effects of poaching and habitat destruction, which fueled his passion for creating lasting change.

Under his leadership, the IAPF has grown into a pioneering force in conservation, employing innovative methods that blend military precision with community-centered solutions. Damien’s work has received accolades from international organizations, and his story has been featured in major media outlets such as National Geographic, BBC, and 60 Minutes. His expertise as both a strategist and practitioner makes him a leading figure in wildlife conservation globally.

Damien Mander’s authority as a keynote speaker and conservation advocate is unparalleled. As the founder of the IAPF, he has redefined modern conservation, integrating principles of equality, sustainability, and empowerment into his programs. His development of Akashinga has been lauded as a revolutionary approach to wildlife protection, receiving recognition from institutions like the United Nations and the World Wildlife Fund.

As a speaker, Damien captivates audiences with his compelling storytelling, blending military anecdotes with conservation insights. His presentations deliver actionable takeaways on leadership, resilience, and sustainability, making him a top choice for conferences, corporate events, and global summits. Damien’s authority is further bolstered by his extensive media presence and accolades from global conservation leaders.

Damien Mander’s trustworthiness as a keynote speaker and conservationist is demonstrated through his consistent actions and results. The IAPF’s transparency and success under his guidance are testaments to his integrity. With a proven track record of delivering impactful conservation outcomes, Damien has earned the trust of global organizations, governments, and local communities.

His commitment to empowering women through the Akashinga initiative highlights his dedication to creating equitable and lasting solutions. Damien’s authenticity and hands-on approach resonate with audiences, ensuring that his message of conservation and leadership is both inspiring and credible.

Summary and Conclusion

Damien Mander embodies the spirit of transformation and resilience. From his beginnings in Australia to leading global conservation efforts, his life is a testament to the power of purpose and perseverance. As a motivational keynote speaker, Damien bridges the gap between inspiration and action, equipping audiences with the tools to lead with courage and innovation.

Booking Damien Mander through Speakers Inc ensures not only an exceptional keynote experience but also a meaningful contribution to the broader conversation on sustainability and leadership. Damien’s journey, expertise, and vision make him an invaluable addition to any event aiming to inspire change and empower its audience.

View All Speakers and follow us on Twitter

Videos

Interest to Book? Send us your enquiry

Speaker Contact Form

Enquiry Form

In order to view the below you must be logged in.

  • Powerpoint Slide – For meeting and event planners
  • Gallery Images
  • High Resolution Images
  • PDF Files
  • Books and Magazine Links
  • Music List
  • Podcast Shows
  • Courses
  • + more

View further speakers

  • (15)
  • (4)
Lt. Col. Waldo Waldman

Lt. Col. Waldo Waldman is known as the The Wingman and a Hall of Fame leadership speaker, executive coach, and author of the New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestseller Never Fly Solo. He teaches organizations how to build trusting, revenue producing relationships with their employees, partners, and customers while sharing his experiences as a combat decorated F-16 […]

  • Travels from: Atlanta, GA
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (59)

GiGi Diaz is not just an event emcee; she is a force to be reckoned with in the world of journalism and broadcasting. From her early years, she displayed an unwavering passion for storytelling, which has propelled her to become a trailblazer in her field. As the first Hispanic sports reporter to collaborate with the […]

  • Travels from: Miami, FL
  • Event Emcee
  • (11)
Franc Godri

Franc Godri has the unique ability to connect with people and help them see the leaders that they are and can become. Franc was born in Montreal Quebec and as a young boy moved to Dalton Georgia. This started his great adventure of changing schools 6 times in 6 years. During that time, he met […]

  • Travels from: Vancouver, BC
  • Business Speakers
  • (66)
  • (7)
Jack Becker

Jack Becker, a former naval fighter pilot turned performance speaker, is one such individual. His life story is a remarkable narrative of courage, determination, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. In this speaking profile, we will explore the incredible life and work of Jack Becker, delving into his background, his experiences as a naval fighter […]

  • Travels from: Virginia Beach, VA
  • Leadership Speakers
  • (35)
Kim Lear

Kim Lear is a prominent figure in the realm of generational patterns and demographic shifts. As the founder and content director of Inlay Insights, she spearheads groundbreaking research that unveils cultural transformations, reshaping how organizations engage both their employees and consumers. With a unique blend of data analysis, compelling storytelling, wit, and actionable insights, Kim […]

  • Travels from: Minneapolis, MN
  • Futurists Speakers
  • (9)
Guy Kawasaki

Guy Kawasaki is a trailblazer in the realms of technology evangelism and digital innovation. Currently serving as the Chief Evangelist of Canva, a leading online design platform, he continues to shape the way businesses and individuals approach creative expression. Kawasaki is also the creator and host of Guy Kawasaki’s Remarkable People podcast, where he interviews […]

  • Travels from: Watsonville, CA
  • Innovation Speakers
  • (20)
  • (2)
Vanessa Van Edwards

Vanessa Van Edwards is a distinguished communication expert, bestselling author, acclaimed speaker, and the visionary founder of Science of People. With a remarkable career dedicated to understanding the intricacies of human behavior, Vanessa has become a leading authority in the fields of communication, body language, and interpersonal dynamics. Her groundbreaking work has empowered individuals and […]

  • Travels from: Austin, TX
  • Communication Speakers
  • (28)
  • (3)
Dr Linda Friedland

Dr Linda Friedland is a international health expert, medical doctor, television personality, well-regarded international conference & keynote speaker and a best selling author. She is an authority on stress management, executive, corporate & women’s health issues. Dr Friedland consults internationally to healthcare, corporate and financial institutions on health & lifestyle interventions as well as emerging […]

  • Travels from: Perth, Australia
  • Workplace Wellness
Disclaimer
The profiles and images embedded on these pages are from various conference entertainers and other talent.

These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.

Fee ranges where listed on this website are intended to serve as a guideline only.

All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.

Subscribe to our Newsletter and get connected:

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.
Your subscription has been successful.

Newsletter

Subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated.

We use Brevo as our marketing platform. By submitting this form you agree that the personal data you provided will be transferred to Brevo for processing in accordance with Brevo's Privacy Policy.

Our Mission:

We are your partner creating memorable and engaging experiences that go beyond the event itself.

© All rights reserved 2025.  Designed using Voxel