Since 1888, the National Geographic Society has brought together extraordinary individuals from around the world. While our Explorers represent diverse backgrounds and pursue very different types of work, we think they share some traits in common. 

National Geographic Explorers:

  • are leaders.

  • are problem solvers.

  • are informed, curious, and capable individuals who are committed to making the world a better place.

  • have a sense of responsibility and respect for other people, cultures, and the natural world.

  • are empowered to make a difference, pursue bold ideas, and persist in the face of challenges.

  • observe, document, and engage with the world around them. 

  • tell stories that inspire others.

  • create and foster a global community committed to a sustainable future.

  • are committed to supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion in their respective fields.

PROFILES: EXPLORERS AT WORK

Our explorers in the field are working to illuminate and protect the wonder of the world. Find out more on a few of our explorers we’re featuring in the below profiles.

 

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    Shivani Bhalla

    A conservation biologist works to safeguard the future of Kenya’s rapidly declining lion population.

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    Pablo Borboroglu

    A leader in the effort to protect penguins uses new approaches to safeguard the species' future.

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    Jamal Galves

    A National Geographic Photo Ark EDGE Fellow is passionate about manatee conservation in Belize.

  •

    Dominique Gonçalves

    A Mozambican ecologist focuses on elephant conservation and building coexistence between communities.

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    Rosamira Guillen

    A conservationist is protecting one of Colombia’s most endangered native species.

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    Beverly and Dereck Joubert

    Award-winning filmmakers Beverly and Dereck Joubert aim to save the wild places and animals of Africa.

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    Rodrigo Medllín

    An ecologist in Mexico uses a multidisciplinary approach to protect and conserve bat species.

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    Hannah Reyes Morales

    A Filipina photojournalist sees photography as an agent of change.

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    Olivier Nsengimana

    A Rwandan veterinarian is implementing a unique project to save his country’s endangered cranes.

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    Rudi Putra

    A biologist is trying to save the critically endangered Sumatran rhinoceros in Indonesia.

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    Marina Rivero

    A National Geographic Photo Ark EDGE Fellow is focused on tapir recovery in Sierra Madre de Chiapas.

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    Asha de Vos

    A Sri Lankan marine biologist and ocean educator pioneers blue whale research in the Indian Ocean.

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    Rae Wynn-Grant

    An ecologist uses her expertise in statistical modeling to understand human-carnivore conflict.

Meet all of our Explorers

Search the Directory

Encouraging Cultural, Gender, and Geographic Diversity

Expand the Field

National Geographic welcomes explorers from around the globe and seeks to build a community that reflects the rich diversity of our world. Learn more about some of the work we’re doing in parts of Asia and Africa.

We also strive for gender equity across our programs. Watch the above video to find out how women are making a difference.