I am currently serving as a Senior Business Development Officer in the Department of National Parks and Wildlife under the Ministry of Tourism. I hold a Master’s Degree and BA in Development Studies from the University of Lusaka. Working in the wildlife sector has really taught me the importance of conserving our environment and wildlife and that marketing the tourism sector is not all about increasing revenues but protecting the product for the benefit of future generations. In 2012, I participated in the Service Learning Global Immersion Program as an Ambassador of Change with Symbiosis Center for Management Studies Pune, India under GreenContributor. This was conducted in Kapini and Katuba areas of Chibombo district. Working in the wildlife sector has taught me the importance of conserving our environment and wildlife and that marketing the sector is not all about revenues but protecting the product as well for the benefit of future generations. I am pursuing a qualification in Climate Friendly Travel through SUNx Malta in collaboration with ITS Malta and I look forward to creating a positive change in community awareness of climate change and also finding workable solutions.

Sitali Akakandelwa is a tourism and sustainability advocate from Zambia with a strong interest in Climate Friendly Travel, conservation, and sustainable development. She is passionate about connecting tourism, education, and climate action to create lasting environmental and social impact. Her work focuses on promoting sustainability awareness among young people and encouraging responsible tourism practices. Through her involvement with Climate Friendly Travel, she aims to build partnerships between schools, communities, and the tourism sector. She is committed to supporting a more sustainable and resilient future for tourism in Zambia.

I hold a Bachelor's Degree in Occupational Health, Safety, and Environment and have over nine years of professional experience in Health, Safety, Environmental, and Sustainability management across the mining and hospitality sectors. 

My career includes more than five years in the mining industry, where I served as an Environmental Officer and Sustainability Champion, leading environmental compliance initiatives, sustainability programs, and environmental management activities. I also spent four years in the hospitality industry as an Environmental Officer and Sustainability Champion, supporting sustainable business practices, environmental stewardship, and corporate sustainability objectives. 

I am currently pursuing a two-year Diploma program with SUNx Malta through Institute of Tourism Studies (ITS) Malta. This program has provided valuable insights into climate-friendly travel, sustainable development, climate resilience, and the evolving role of sustainability in global industries. 

My professional interests include environmental management, sustainability strategy, climate action, occupational health and safety, stakeholder engagement, and the development of sustainable solutions that create long-term value for organizations and communities.