AWF named Fashion Model Veronica Varekova (pictured opposite with AWF Lion Researcher Bernard Kissui) its latest Goodwill Ambassador on October 15. Considered one of the most beautiful women in the world, Varekova was born in the Czech Republic and has a degree in Psychology and Education. She began modeling at age 19 and has appeared in campaigns for Sports’ Illustrated and Victoria’s Secret. She is fluent in three languages.

The recruitment of Varekova as an AWF Goodwill Ambassador is a win for conservation and AWF. After traveling to Africa and visiting AWF projects in Tanzania, Varekova approached AWF, expressing a deep interest in helping to raise awareness about conservation in Africa and promote AWF’s projects and programs around the world. “I truly respect and value AWF’s mission, philosophy, work ethic, and am excited to get on the ground to begin my work,” said Varekova on taking up her new post. As an AWF Goodwill Ambassador, Veronica will aid in efforts to raise awareness and funds to support initiatives focused on conserving large landscapes, protecting endangered species, and empowering local communities working in AWF’s nine African Heartlands.

As her first assignment, Varekova will travel to the Virunga Heartland to liaise with conservationists working in the forested habitat surrounding the Sabyinyo Silverback Lodge, created to conserve the highly endangered mountain gorilla in a way that benefits people. AWF Vice President for Marketing and Philanthropy Craig Sholley will serve as her guide in visiting AWF’s wildlife conservation and community development projects. Sholley is a fitting host—he began his career in conservation working with Dian Fossey’s Mountain Gorilla Project and has since served in various advisory and managerial roles at AWF. While in the Virunga Heartland, Varekova will raise awareness about AWF’s work to conserve the highly endangered mountain gorilla, liaise with community groups who are advancing conservation efforts, and express appreciation for Rwanda’s work in supporting the conservation efforts of AWF.

“We could not be more thrilled to have Veronica involved with the African Wildlife Foundation,” says Sholley. “Veronica shares our belief that protecting Africa’s wildlife and landscapes is the key to the future economic prosperity of Africa and its people. We are confident that her passion for our mission will create additional awareness of our work.”