Finance Background Looking to Pivot into Conservation

Hi Everyone,

I'm a 23 y/o female working in finance with a lifelong dream of getting into wildlife conservation. It's not something I've pursued professionally yet, but I'm actively looking to make my way in. I'll admit I was quite intimidated seeing how many people in the space come from animal biology or scientific backgrounds, but I was recently inspired by a creator I follow who also started in finance and is now leading fundraising at a conservation organization in Zimbabwe.

Field work and direct animal interaction would be a dream, but I understand that's less applicable to my background. I'm really just looking for an unpaid volunteer opportunity at an organization in South Africa, Kenya, or Tanzania, where I can contribute most valuable through operations and finance. I'd also love to get involved in research wherever possible and be as hands-on as I can.

I'm very determined to get started, but unsure of who to reach out to, and a little hesitant about travelling to these countries alone without a trusted organization or group to go through. Any guidance would be so appreciated.

Thanks so much in advance!