What inspired you to work for Hoja Nueva?
I was inspired by Hoja Nueva’s mission and the genuine passion of its team for conservation. Their dedication to meaningful work motivated me to get involved in projects that offered hands-on fieldwork opportunities and the chance to analyze data collected over multiple years and across a diverse range of species. Additionally, the opportunity to work and live in the heart of the Peruvian Amazon, a region teeming with unparalleled biodiversity, was an incredibly exciting prospect for me.
A picture of our group before heading off on a camera trap hike.
Describe a typical day at work.
My typical day usually starts with fieldwork in the morning. This often involves checking camera traps, which requires hiking to the stations, servicing the cameras as needed (such as changing batteries or adjusting their positioning), and swapping SD cards to process the data back at the research center. We usually return by early afternoon for lunch. After lunch, I typically focus on desk work, which might include analyzing data for my research, reviewing data entered by interns, or assisting with their projects. Most evenings end on a fun note with a game of volleyball as the sun sets. On some days, we also assist with our biweekly pedidos, collecting supplies for the research and rehabilitation centers.
A picture of our group stopping by a big tree on one of our walks.
What is your favorite part of your job?
I love working outdoors, especially in such a biodiverse area where we have the chance to encounter incredible wildlife and fascinating flora. Living within the very ecosystem we’re studying offers a unique and enriching experience, providing practical insights into how these systems function. Another aspect I truly enjoy is the physicality of the work. Fieldwork often involves trekking long distances through the jungle, which not only presents a rewarding physical challenge but also keeps me deeply connected to the environment I’m helping to protect.
How do you use your education and international background in your current role?
As a Research and Rehabilitation Analyst, my education and international background significantly shape my work. My academic training, a Bachelor of Science in Geography and a Master’s in Ecology and Data Science, provides strong data analysis skills, particularly in R and statistical modeling, essential for processing complex datasets and contributing to research projects. My experience in designing and executing research translates directly to monitoring camera trap grids and analyzing wildlife data. Growing up in New Zealand, Australia, and the UK has given me a global perspective and adaptability, enabling me to connect with diverse cultures, a key skill for collaborating with international researchers and supporting interns.
A picture of me and an intern identifying aquatic spider species.
What advice would you give your pre-travel self?
If I could give advice to my pre-travel self, I’d say the key is to stay adaptable. Things don’t always go as planned, and being open to change makes the experience much more rewarding. Take your time and embrace a slower pace, it allows you to truly immerse yourself in the environment and culture. Also, approach every opportunity with eagerness and positivity. Jumping into as many experiences as possible, whether it’s learning something new or connecting with people, can lead to unexpected growth and memorable moments.
Why should someone choose Hoja Nueva over competitors?
Someone should choose Hoja Nueva because of the breadth and depth of our genuine conservation and research efforts. We conduct a wide range of research projects, each aimed at providing meaningful insights into species ecology, with the ultimate goal of publishing these findings. Our extensive datasets, collected from multiple camera trap grids over several years, offer a unique opportunity for in-depth and long-term research that few other organizations can match. In addition to research, Hoja Nueva operates on multiple fronts of conservation. We practice hands-on conservation by rehabilitating rescued species, actively protecting primary rainforest land, and working to safeguard the biodiversity of the Peruvian Amazon. Our location in pristine primary rainforest offers unparalleled opportunities for both researchers and conservationists to work in one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world. Choosing Hoja Nueva means contributing to a holistic and impactful approach to conservation and research.
A picture of me and another researcher crossing a swamp on a camera trap walk.
What is your organization's mission, and how do you continue to work toward it?
Hoja Nueva’s mission is to protect and restore the biodiversity of the Peruvian Amazon through research, conservation, and community engagement. We conduct impactful research, such as long-term camera trap studies, to uncover critical insights into species and ecosystems, guiding effective conservation strategies. Our rehabilitation program rescues and rewilds wildlife, helping animals return to their natural habitats, while we also protect vast areas of primary rainforest to preserve vital ecosystems. Through collaboration with researchers, training interns, and engaging with local communities, we promote sustainable practices and conservation awareness. Hoja Nueva is dedicated to preserving the Amazon’s biodiversity for future generations.
What does meaningful travel mean to you?
To me, meaningful travel is about connecting deeply with the places, people, and environments you visit. It’s not just about seeing new sights but about immersing yourself in the culture, learning from local communities, and understanding the challenges they face. It means contributing positively, whether through supporting conservation efforts, engaging in ethical tourism, or gaining knowledge that you can take home and apply to make a difference. Meaningful travel leaves a lasting impact—not only on the traveler but also on the places visited—by fostering respect, cultural exchange, and a commitment to protecting and preserving the natural and cultural heritage of our world.
