Who founded Cheetah Conservation Fund?

Cheetah Conservation Fund was founded in 1990 by Dr. Laurie Marker, who serves as the organisation's Executive Director. Dr. Marker is one of the pioneers in the field of predator conservation focusing on the cheetah and has led CCF's research, education, and conservation programs for over three decades. Under her leadership, CCF has grown from a single research site in Namibia to an international organisation with field centres in Namibia and Somaliland and affiliate organisations across multiple countries.

Who is Dr. Laurie Marker?

Dr. Laurie Marker is the Founder and Executive Director of Cheetah Conservation Fund and one of the world's foremost experts on cheetah conservation. She serves as the International Cheetah Studbook Keeper and was named Vice-Chair of the IUCN SSC Cat Specialist Group in 1996. Dr. Marker oversees all of CCF's field-based initiatives and programs across Namibia and Somaliland. Her personal commitment and scientific expertise have made her the principal voice and ambassador for cheetah conservation worldwide.

How long has CCF been working to save cheetahs?

CCF has been working to save cheetahs since 1990, making it one of the longest-running cheetah conservation organisations in the world. Over more than three decades, CCF has built the research, rescue, and education programs the species depends on for survival. CCF has been active at CITES since 1992 and has expanded its operations from Namibia to the Horn of Africa, where the illegal wildlife trade poses the most urgent threat to cheetah populations.

What has CCF accomplished for cheetah conservation?

CCF has pioneered non-lethal human-wildlife conflict solutions including the livestock guarding dog program and Future Farmers of Africa training. CCF's genetics research led to the 2023 IUCN uplisting of Horn of Africa cheetahs to Endangered status. CCF built and operates the Cheetah Rescue and Conservation Centre in Somaliland, caring for over 100 rescued cheetahs. CCF co-organised the first Global Cheetah Summit in 2024, bringing together delegates from 23 range countries. CCF has published the Namibian Carnivore Red Data Book and maintains the International Cheetah Studbook and the Cheetah Conservation Compendium.

How can I support Dr. Laurie Marker's work to save cheetahs?

You can support Dr. Marker's work by donating to Cheetah Conservation Fund, sponsoring a resident cheetah, joining the Founder's Circle for leadership-level giving, or including CCF in your estate plans through the Chewbaaka Society legacy giving program. CCF also welcomes working guests and interns at its field centres. Every contribution directly supports the research, rescue, education, and policy programs that protect cheetahs across their range. Visit cheetah.org to give today.

An Evening with Dr. Laurie Marker on the Empress Yacht

Oct 11, 2026

5:45 pm

Location: San Francisco, California, USA
Venue: Pier 40 - Empress
Google Maps

Back by popular demand! Join Dr. Laurie Marker aboard the luxury yacht Empress for an evening sail on San Francisco Bay. Founder of Cheetah Conservation Fund and one of the world’s leading voices for the cheetah, Dr. Marker will share the latest from the field in Namibia and what it will take to secure a future for the fastest land animal on earth. The evening includes heavy passed hors d’oeuvres, champagne and wine, and time with Dr. Marker and CCF staff. A cash bar is available on board.

What: An evening sail on San Francisco Bay with Dr. Laurie Marker, with heavy passed hors d’oeuvres, champagne and wine, and a cash bar on board.
When: Sunday, October 11, 2026 | Boarding 5:45 PM, sails 6:00 PM, returns 9:00 PM
Where: Aboard the Empress, boarding at Pier 40, South Beach Harbor, The Embarcadero, San Francisco
Who: Friends of the cheetah who’d like an evening on the water with the woman who has spent her life saving them

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