Meet the team

The People Behind the Scenes

Lion Encounter has a large team, many people behind the scenes who are working hard to ensure that our guests, volunteers and lions are happy and well looked after. We’d like to thank all of them for everything they do for us!

Here’s the rest of them!

	Richard, General Manager “I was born in Harare, Zimbabwe. I lived in Zimbabwe for majority of my life and then moved to South Africa where I completed my High Schooling. Following this I spent four years at Antelope Park, one Year at Livingstone Community project and have managed Lion Encounter Zambia for since its inception. I enjoy polo-x, fishing and exploring national parks in Southern Africa.”
	Nicola, General Manager Nicola was born in Bedfordshire in the UK, and travelled to Africa in 2005. Since then she has spent most of her time with the company managing both lion and community volunteer projects in different locations across Zimbabwe and Zambia. She also spent eight months collecting data on the projects first released lion pride, a time she claims is “amongst the best months of my life.” She loves travelling and holidaying with Rich, spending time at home with her cats, goats and dogs, watching Grey’s anatomy, and spending time with friends and family.
	Likando, Office Administrator and Accountant Likando was born in Livingstone and grew up in Kitwe. He enjoys his job because it keeps his mind very active! Outside of work, he likes spending as much as time as possible with his family and his interests are art and science. He describes himself as a friendly, hard work.
	Cara, Volunteer and Lions Manager “I first moved to Africa in 2007; after studying for a degree in Animal Management and Welfare I became a volunteer in 2006 at Antelope Park in Zimbabwe. I then returned to volunteer again in 2007 and started working as the Lions Manager early 2008, looking after just under 80 lions, for just over a year and a half before moving to Livingstone in Zambia. In Zambia I have two roles; the Lions Manager and Volunteer Project Manager. These two roles include looking after all the lions needs including health, welfare and there day to day needs, plus looking after the volunteers and making sure they have a great time and enjoy their time with us and the lions! I also have two dogs here at Lion Encounter to look after; Trevor and Simba who are always welcoming new volunteers! Oh and I’ll do anything for a prawn or two.”
	Mulenga, Volunteer Coordinator ‘I was born in Monze, then moved to Livingstone town where I did both my primary and high school education. After high school I went to University in Kitwe where I studied Bachelor of Science Forest Management for four years. I first came to Lion Encounter as an intern in early 2011, then 13 months later I was lucky enough to be back as the volunteer project co-ordinator. I love being happy and making other people laugh if they want to, if they don’t, I will still be happy because that’s me!!’
	Friday, Head Guide “Hi, I’m Friday, and I am the head guide here at Lion Encounter. I was born in Chililabombwe and I grew up in Ndola in the Copperbelt Province. Aside from visiting places of interest, I also enjoy watching movies, visiting friends and visiting my relatives. I think I am friendly and courteous. Interacting with lions is the best part of my job, but I also enjoy spreading information about Livingstone and what we have to offer to the tourists.”
	Mwiya, Guide “I was born in Livingstone, in 1984 and grew up in the Monze district. I enjoy Listening to Zambian Music, and watching wildlife films. If I’m off I’ll also enjoy a few lagers (if you haven’t tried our local Mosi Beer – then I think you should!) just to spice up my evenings! Working with the lions, and animals in general is the best part of my job and whilst out in the bush I get to see birds and other mammals which is great. “
	Zick, Guide Zick was born in Mulfulira town in the Copperbelt Province and he grew up there and also in Luangwa Valley. Zick loves the fact allows him to share knowledge with people allows him to work with animals – which is his passion!! He loves spending time in the bush with nature all around and likes the conservation aspect of the job. Outside of work, Zick enjoys playing pool, watching television, spending time working on his wildlife book project and spending time with his kids. He describes himself as someone who likes debates and someone who has a love for human kind and is fast to forgive and forget.
	Cephas, Head Lion Handler Cephas was born in Zambia and grew up in the Copperbelt Province. In his spare time he enjoys reading books about wildlife, trees and birds, and watching movies. He also enjoys spending time with his family. As Head Lion Handler the best part about Cephas’s day he says, is “Going out for a walk and seeing that all the lions are happy and healthy”…We couldn’t agree with you more Cephas!
	John, Deputy Head Lion Handler “I was born in Kaoma and grew up in Lusaka, but moved to Livingstone which i really like because I get to see Victoria Falls. As deputy head lion handler the best bit about my job has to be walking with lions! I enjoy football and watch matches when I am off.”
	Charles, Head Scout “As head of the scouting department I encounter buffalos and elephants and it is my job to keep the people and animals safe on the lion walks. Encountering these animals is the bit I love the most, as I have to think hard and make plans to drive them out of the walking route safely and effectively. Other than my job, I enjoy reading wildlife and law books, reading the Bible, travelling, preaching the Gospel and praying and watching Chelsea Football team! I’m a very friendly guy, I enjoy a joke, and I just always want to be happy!”