To help fund conservation campaigns across Africa, Wild Africa held its second U.S. fundraising gala, “Guardians of the Wild 2025,” on Saturday, November 15, 2025, in Santa Monica, California. Hosted by American actress Bo Derek, the evening brought together conservationists, philanthropists and entertainment leaders to help advance Wild Africa’s mission to protect Africa’s wildlife and wild spaces. The event raised more than one million dollars to support the organization’s growing impact across the continent and expand into an additional five countries in 2026.
Co-founded in 2022 by Peter Knights OBE and Corie Knights, Wild Africa is building the continent’s most effective conservation communication network by elevating local voices and using media and storytelling to mainstream conservation. With the Living Planet Report 2024 revealing a 76 percent decline in African wildlife populations over the last 50 years, the need for widespread awareness and community engagement has never been more urgent.
Active in eleven countries, Wild Africa now reaches more than one billion people through broadcast, radio, print, billboards and digital platforms, supported by over 200 ambassadors across music, sports, film, business, faith and government. The gala contributes to the organization’s long-term effort to expand this impact across Africa, in another five countries, and safeguard more wildlife.
“Africa is home to the world’s most extraordinary wildlife, but rarely do we hear from the voices on the ground,” says Peter Knights OBE, CEO of Wild Africa.
Featured gala guests included renowned Hollywood auctioneer Billy Harris and Dr. Mark Ofua, Nigerian wildlife veterinarian and host of Dr. Mark’s Animal Show.
“Dr. Mark is a wildlife veterinarian who rescues wildlife from bushmeat markets. His passion and authenticity are inspiring millions of young Africans to take another look at wildlife conservation”, continues Peter Knights.
Guests heard a presentation from Peter Knights on the state of Africa’s wildlife and later enjoyed an exclusive Afropop performance by DJ Fredy Muks, the Cameroon-born GRAMMY Award–winning producer, songwriter and DJ. Attendees also took part in live and silent auctions offering exceptional experiences and unique items. Together, the gala and auctions surpassed the fundraising goal, ensuring continued support for Wild Africa’s conservation communication campaigns.
Funds raised will support several key initiatives including:
- Music for Wildlife: more than 140 African artists sharing conservation messages through entertainment on Trace TV.
- Dr. Mark’s Animal Show: a children’s television program inspiring young audiences to care about wildlife.
- Unsung Heroes: mini-documentaries highlighting frontline conservationists.
- Wildlife Info Chatbot: a multilingual WhatsApp tool offering coexistence and anti-poaching guidance.
“We have spent decades proving that when people are aware, they care,” says Corie Knights, Development Director of Wild Africa. “The support from our gala strengthens the ability to reach millions more people across Africa with messages that empower communities to protect and coexist with wildlife.”
“This isn’t just about saving animals; it’s about changing mindsets,” said Bo Derek, host of the 2025 gala. “Wild Africa is sharing untold messages to help secure a future for Africa’s wildlife. I’m honored to be part of this effort to protect one of the planet’s greatest treasures.”
For more information about Wild Africa’s conservation work, how to get involved or how to donate, visit wildafrica.org.
