Menu
Log in
     
                                                    
Log in

CONTENT DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in the Coffee and Connect webinars and recordings are those of the speakers or authors and do not necessarily reflect or represent the views and opinions held by APHE or its Board of Directors. 


October 7th - 10 am PT/1pm ET

From Curiosity to Care: How Animal Welfare Clubs Inspire Action

Presented by Dr. Brenda Oliwa Okumu, PhD

In Kenya, children often grow up near abundant wildlife yet have little formal education about animals and their role in ecosystems. This presentation will discuss a study that explored how a training program designed for primary school children influenced their knowledge, attitudes, and behavior toward animals inside and outside their local community. Before the program, many students viewed animals, especially hyenas and snakes, as dangerous or without value. Through engaging lessons, stories about local wildlife and domestic animals, and tree planting activities, the training helped children learn about the ecological and cultural value of animals. The findings show students expressing empathy, interest in conservation, and a willingness to protect animals, compared with peers who did not take part in the program. This shift suggests that culturally relevant education can foster respect for animals and support long term conservation efforts across Africa.



Dr. Brenda Oliwa Okumu, PhD is the Director of Research, Planning, and Evaluation at the Africa Network for Animal Welfare (ANAW). She holds a doctorate in Educational Psychology from Kenyatta University and has over ten years of experience in the education and development sectors. She coordinates the Africa Conservation Education Fund (ACEF) at ANAW. Her current research focuses on how educational interventions can change knowledge, behavior, and attitudes toward animals while promoting pro environmental behavior. Through her work, she aims to develop a generation of informed, compassionate advocates for animal welfare and environmental sustainability.

Registration link coming soon!

WANT TO SPEAK AT AN UPCOMING COFFEE & CONNECT?


HISTORY OF COFFEE & CONNECT

Our popular Coffee & Connect webinars were introduced in 2020 resulting from an immediate need for our members to connect and share summer camp planning during the 2020 COVID pandemic beginnings. Due to the success of this monthly program (formerly Coffee & Camp), the program has evolved to monthly webinars featuring experts in the field of Humane Education. Each Coffee & Connect features topics relevant to educators in the field. 

Coffee & Connect is offered the 1st Wednesday of each month, at 1pm ET (unless stated otherwise).  Registration is free for members and requires pre-registration. Non-members may register for a $5 fee.

View past Coffee & Connect topics here. 



© Association of Professional Humane Educators