University High School was honored to welcome Mwezi “Badru” Mugerwa to campus today as our Founders’ Day keynote speaker. Mugerwa shared his story, took questions from students in a lively Q&A, and spent additional time with one of our Zoology classes for a deeper conversation about conservation science and community impact.
Mugerwa is a Ugandan conservationist and researcher best known for his leadership in protecting the African golden cat. He founded and directs Embaka, a grassroots organization focused on preserving the species, launched the first community-based anti-poaching effort for the African golden cat at Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, and created the African Golden Cat Conservation Alliance (AGCCA)—a network of African nationals advancing conservation across the species’ range. He also serves as president of the Society for Conservation Biology’s Africa Region and president-elect for SCB Global.
In 2025, Mugerwa was named the Emerging Conservationist Award winner by the Indianapolis Prize, the world’s leading award for animal conservation—an honor given to a conservationist under 40 who has made a significant impact, and that includes a $50,000 award.
Central to Mugerwa’s approach is partnering with local communities to address the root causes of poaching. Since 2015, Embaka’s four programs—ranging from free oral health care and livestock to credit and savings support in exchange for no-poaching pledges—have enrolled more than 2,225 community members in support of the African golden cat. He has emphasized that communities “hold the solutions” when you take time to understand real needs and collaborate on practical alternatives.
Scientifically, his team uses AI to analyze camera-trap data and is working with colleagues in 19 African countries toward a standardized model for monitoring the African golden cat across its range—improving how researchers study populations and trends.
The Indianapolis Prize recognizes conservationists who achieve major victories for species; since 2004 it has awarded more than $7 million in unrestricted support to advance this work worldwide.
We are grateful to Mr. Mugerwa for sharing his time and expertise with our students on Founders’ Day—an annual reminder of University’s bold beginnings and our commitment to learning in community.