Nyaradzo Auxilia Hoto grew up in Huyo village, in Nyamakate, located in Zimbabwe’s mighty Zambezi Valley. From an early age, she dreamed of having a positive impact on her region and its wildlife.

Previously a commander of the all-women anti-poaching Akashinga Rangers, today Nyaradzo sits as a Biodiversity Officer focused on research and data analysis collected by Akashinga Rangers, who are executing everyday patrols, to evaluate and maintain wildlife and vegetation.

Nyaradzo graduated Chinhoyi University of Technology with a Bachelor of Science degree in Wildlife, Ecology and Conservation, with plans in pursuing a master’s degree. In 2022, Nyaradzo won the International Ranger Award, and in 2025, she was a featured speaker at TEDx Vail. Her interests are centered on wildlife conservation, ecology and sustainability, protecting her region’s natural heritage for her young daughters and for generations to come.