By Abdullahi Lukman
The Elephant Protection Initiative (EPI) has named Zimbabwean conservation storyteller and filmmaker, Survivor Nyasulu, as its Friend of the Month in recognition of his outstanding contribution to wildlife conservation and community storytelling.
Nyasulu, who hails from Dete, near Hwange National Park, currently serves as the Marketing and Communications Assistant at Painted Dog Conservation.
His conservation writing, published through Community Podium News, a non-profit participatory media organisation, has reached audiences around the world.
A qualified safari guide and former ranger, Nyasulu spent eight years on anti-poaching patrols, working as both a ranger and a dog-handler assistant.
He is also the host of Nature Is Life, a weekly conservation talk show on SkyzMetro FM in Bulawayo.
The programme has not only raised awareness but has also led to the recovery of two pangolins through listener engagement.
Beyond broadcasting, Nyasulu teaches camera basics at the Wilton Nsimango Children’s Bush Camp, where his own love for wildlife first began.
Influenced by wildlife photographer Nicholas Dyer, he developed a passion for visual storytelling as a tool for conservation.
Nyasulu’s work has been featured by Wildlife Conservation Network, Space for Giants, and Conserve Zim.
He holds a First-Class BA in Film, Television, and Media Studies, with his final university project focusing on painted dogs — a species that continues to inspire his photography and film work.
Drawing from his experience as a ranger, Nyasulu says his filmmaking focuses on telling the stories of rangers and rural communities living alongside wildlife — groups he believes are often overlooked.
“We live with these animals every day,” he said.
“When locals tell the story, the message resonates more deeply because it comes from someone within the community.”
His recent documentary, Living in Harmony — supported by the European Union Zimbabwe and screened at Soft Foot Alliance in Mabale — highlights the daily realities of people living on the borders of protected areas.
The film emphasises how community empowerment can strengthen wildlife protection and promote coexistence.
One story featured in the film tells of a woman who lost livestock to a lion but continues to volunteer with Painted Dog Conservation, a testament to local resilience and commitment to coexistence.
Nyasulu says his goal is to change the global conservation narrative by amplifying African voices and perspectives.
“An African lens brings authenticity,” he explained.
“It ensures conservation is seen as part of everyday life, not as an outside concept.”
Looking ahead, Nyasulu is preparing a new photo essay on elephants, focusing on their ecological importance and the challenges they face.
He hopes the project will raise awareness and inspire greater protection for the species.
Reflecting on his journey from bush camp to filmmaking, Nyasulu encourages young conservationists to stay persistent:
“I waited seven years after high school before I could study.
Through hard work, I earned my degree. Where there is a will, there’s always a way.”
Through his work in film, radio, and photography, Survivor Nyasulu continues to shine a light on the intersection of people, wildlife, and conservation — proving that powerful storytelling can drive lasting change.
