Jamila Blake is a dedicated wildlife conservationist and advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the environmental sector. With a background spanning conservation science, nonprofit leadership, and workforce development, she has spent her career expanding opportunities for underrepresented groups in conservation and STEM fields. She is currently a Project Manager at the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), where she works to advance equity in STEM and environmental fields, ensuring that conservation and science are accessible and inclusive for all.

Previously, Jamila played a key role in professional development and diversity initiatives at The Wildlife Society (TWS), where she led programs that supported early-career professionals, provided training for emerging leaders, and increased pathways into conservation for underrepresented groups. She managed initiatives such as the Wildlife Biologist Certification Program, the Leadership Institute, and the Native American Research Assistantship Program, all designed to strengthen the conservation workforce. She also represented TWS in the Diversity Joint Venture for Conservation Careers, collaborating with agencies and organizations to build a more inclusive environmental sector.

Jamila believes that a thriving conservation field must reflect the diversity of the people and places it serves. Throughout her career, she has worked to create a more inclusive conservation community by expanding career pathways, increasing access to opportunities, and helping organizations build environments where all conservation professionals can thrive. Whether through workforce development, leadership training, or advocacy, her work continues to shape a stronger, more equitable future for conservation and science.

Jamila’s academic background combines wildlife science and nonprofit leadership, giving her a unique perspective on both conservation practice and the systems that shape career opportunities in the field. She earned a B.S. in Wildlife Conservation and Ecology from the University of Delaware, where she built a strong foundation in conservation biology and environmental policy. She later completed a Master of Public Administration with a concentration in Nonprofit Management from American University, equipping her with the skills to develop impactful programs that bridge conservation, leadership development, and social change. With a decade of experience in professional associations, she has spent her career empowering the next generation of scientists, navigating complex policy landscapes, and leading teams dedicated to safeguarding wildlife and habitats.