Juan Swanepoel
He/Him
I am gay and I am a conservation ecologist.//
Recently completed my PhD in conservation ecology with a wide range of botanical and zoological experience and palaentological and marine interests. Currently looking for a more permanent industry position, but having fun doing various wildlife and vegetation conservation work as well as ecological and biodiversity consulting as a freelance conservation scientist. I remember growing up and going into my field of work never really seeing people I identified with. As a more mature scientist I’ve found there are so many of us, but it is mentioned in hushed tones and that needs to stop. We need to be seen and heard for more than our science but also who we are as people. Only coming out in my late-twenties/early-thirties and recognizing how having to hide myself has affected me has emphasized the latter point to be accepted, seen, and heard in our communities.