12 Minute documentary
In Botswana, home to the largest population of elephants in the world, conservation roles remain heavily male-dominated. This short documentary follows Kay, a woman who has spent the last five years caring for orphaned elephants, challenging traditional gender roles in wildlife conservation. Through her daily work and quiet strength, the film sheds light on the intersection of gender, wildlife protection, and resilience in one of the most critical elephant habitats on Earth.
About the project
In the heart of Botswana, where elephants face increasing threats from habitat loss, poaching, and climate change, one woman is quietly reshaping the future of conservation. Kay, a long-time caregiver at Elephant Havens, has dedicated her life to raising orphaned elephants—nurturing them with patience, strength, and deep empathy. In a field traditionally dominated by men, her presence challenges cultural norms and opens the door for more women to lead in wildlife protection.
This film follows Kay’s journey, revealing how her work represents more than care—it’s a statement of coexistence between people and nature, and between women and men. Her story highlights a replicable model of community-driven, gender-inclusive conservation in one of Africa’s most critical ecosystems.
↓ TRAILER
Soon
Director approach
This film is guided by a desire to explore the intersection of gender, conservation, and coexistence. Through the lens of Kay’s everyday life at Elephant Havens in Botswana, we reveal not only the critical challenges facing elephant populations—but also the quiet revolution being led by women like her. Kay’s story is not just about rescuing orphaned elephants; it’s about reclaiming space in a field historically dominated by men and redefining what leadership in conservation can look like.
The narrative unfolds through observational storytelling—capturing Kay in her element, tending to elephants, mentoring younger women, and reflecting on her journey. Her voice anchors the film, offering a personal and emotional window into the challenges and triumphs of working at the frontlines of wildlife protection. Alongside Kay, we meet others who were inspired by her example, showing how one woman’s path can ripple across a community.
Visually, the film will be intimate and immersive. We will focus on natural light, handheld camerawork, and detailed close-ups that place viewers inside the sanctuary: the rough textures of elephant skin, the dust rising from their steps, the calm determination in Kay’s eyes. Ambient sounds—trumpeting, wind, quiet conversations—will guide the pacing, creating a meditative rhythm that contrasts moments of stillness with the urgency of action.
Thematically, this is a story of coexistence: between elephants and humans, between men and women, and between tradition and transformation. It is a call to expand our definition of who gets to lead in conservation—and why that matters now more than ever.
↓ Photography
Why this film?
In Botswana, home to the world’s largest elephant population, the future of conservation depends on inclusive leadership. This film should be made to spotlight the vital yet underrepresented role of women in protecting endangered species. In a field long dominated by men, Kay’s story challenges the norms—showing how empathy, care, and quiet resilience are reshaping elephant conservation. As climate change, habitat loss, and poaching threaten Africa’s elephants, Kay’s journey offers a powerful, replicable model of community-based, gender-inclusive conservation that’s urgently needed across the continent and beyond.
↓ Moodboard (created in field)
Distribution plan
Local screenings: Host community events near Elephant Havens to raise awareness and inspire local engagement.
Film Festivals: Submit to African and international festivals focused on environment, conservation, and women’s rights.
NGO Collaboration: PCollaborate with conservation and gender equality NGOs to use the film in outreach and advocacy.
Online Platforms: Distribute on platforms like YouTube and Vimeo, supported by a targeted social media campaign.
Educational: Integrate into training programs and workshops on conservation and female leadership.
Impact of the Film
This film aims to inspire greater inclusion in conservation by highlighting the power of women-led efforts in protecting endangered species. Kay’s story challenges gender norms while offering a compelling model of coexistence between humans and wildlife. The film will serve as a powerful tool for NGOs, schools, and conservation programs to promote gender equity, empower future female leaders, and foster community-driven environmental stewardship across Africa and beyond.
Crew
Co-Director & DoP: Francisco Galeazzi
Co-Director: Zelmira Zavalia Lagos
Producer & Assistant: Zelmira Zavalia Lagos
↓ BTS
