SHARLENE COHEN on MAASAI MAMMAS
Sharlene Cohen is a dedicated environmentalist and conservationist, splitting her time between East Africa and her business, Urban Rewild, in Australia. She spends 3-4 months each year in East Africa, leading grassroots projects that foster sustainable development and community empowerment. The remainder of her time is devoted to local conservation efforts, including a Koala recovery and Spotted-tailed Quoll monitoring program.
MAASAI MAMMAS
Sharlene's connection with the Maasai community began in 2019 when she was profoundly moved by their deep connection to nature and dedication to wildlife protection. Since 2022, she has spearheaded ten grassroots projects in Uganda and Kenya, including sending 21 children to school through Christmas appeals, launching chicken projects, and leading environmental regeneration on cleared land, schools, and homes. Sharlene has also been instrumental in reforming wildlife poachers and supporting retired rangers.
A key initiative is the Harvest Food Forest project, which merges food production with business training for school age children. She also led a photography and business workshop for young Ugandan conservationists.
In 2024, after spending five weeks with the Maasai, Sharlene identified the critical need for safe, reliable water. Her current focus, the Maasai Mammas Borehole Project, aims to supply water to two businesses, four Manyattas (villages), a 1-2 acre food forest, and a wildlife and livestock trough. The project will also establish a Maasai Mammas jewellery house where women can conduct workshops, sell jewellery, learn business skills, and generate income. This initiative will support over 2,000 Maasai people and approximately 1,000 livestock and wildlife.
SHARLENE COHEN
Sharlene Cohen has been a resident of Batemans Bay, NSW, for 35 years, with 25 years of experience as a businesswoman and active volunteer and member of various local committees. Her deep commitment to people, place, and the planet drives her work in both East Africa and Australia. Sharlene’s motto, "Where there is LOVE, there is HOPE," encapsulates her approach to making a positive impact.
Sharlene also serves on the boards of Community Gardens Australia and Mubare Biodiversity Conservation in Uganda, where she focuses on saving mountain gorillas and reforming poachers.
CONTACT: Sharlene Cohen 0428711709 sharlene@urbanrewild.com









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