Animal Heroes Honored at IFAW’s 2025 Animal Action Awards in London

By_Suraj Karowa

London, UK – The International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) celebrated the 25th anniversary of its prestigious Animal Action Awards at BAFTA, London. Hosted by wildlife presenter Michaela Strachan, known for Springwatch and The Really Wild Show, the event honored individuals, organizations, and an extraordinary animal for their remarkable contributions to global conservation.

2025 Award Winners

Women in Conservation Award: Ever Vimbai Chinoda  Zimbabwean lawyer Ever Vimbai Chinoda has shaped national anti-poaching policies and legal frameworks. Her work gained prominence in 2016 while monitoring the high-profile case of Cecil the lion, killed by a trophy hunter. As a trailblazer in a male-dominated field, she mentors future conservation lawyers, giving animals a voice in the justice system.

Wildlife Rescue Award: Jamal Galves

Belize’s “manatee man,” Jamal Galves, has led manatee, dolphin, turtle, and whale rescues since age 11. He heads Belize’s national stranding network, has trained over 3,000 boat captains to reduce wildlife collisions, and established the country’s first marine life rescue and education center.
Storyteller of the Year Award: Cristina Mittermeier Mexican-Canadian photographer and marine biologist Cristina Mittermeier uses conservation photography to inspire global action. Over three decades, her work has supported Indigenous communities and advocated for marine protected areas, reaching millions through her films and advocacy.

Animal of the Year Award: Henry the Dog
Henry, a UK wildlife crime detection dog, supports the National Wildlife Crime Unit by detecting evidence like raptor carcasses and satellite tags. His work aids investigations into illegal killings of Britain’s threatened species, particularly birds of prey.
Innovator of the Year Award: Baidu
Baidu, a founding member of the Coalition to End Wildlife Trafficking Online, leverages AI to combat illegal wildlife trade. Its AI Guardian tool, developed with IFAW, identifies and removes millions of illegal wildlife product listings online with high accuracy.
Fighting Wildlife Crime Award: Jakarta Animal Aid Network (JAAN)
JAAN combats Indonesia’s illegal wildlife trade through investigations, rescues, and Asia’s first K9 wildlife crime unit. Operating multiple rescue centers, JAAN collaborates with authorities to strengthen wildlife law enforcement.

Lifetime Achievement Award: Dr. Abdullahi Ali
Kenyan conservationist Dr. Abdullahi Ali, founder of the Hirola Conservation Program, has dedicated his career to saving the critically endangered hirola antelope, with fewer than 500 remaining. His community-led approach combines science and habitat restoration.
A Milestone Celebration
Azzedine Downes, IFAW’s President and CEO, praised the winners: “The Animal Action Awards, now in its 25th year, celebrates the unwavering commitment of global animal heroes. Each winner’s story reflects stewardship and a lasting impact on animals, people, and our planet.”
About the Event
The awards, held at BAFTA, London, recognized nominees submitted by the public.