Johannesburg, 16 March 2026: National Geographic Explorers are exceptional individuals in their fields who receive funding and support from the National Geographic Society to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world. Now, a new online initiative by National Geographic Africa titled “Explorers Xplored” will showcase the research, exploration, science, storytelling and courageous work being done by both young and longstanding Explorers across Africa. Explorers are driven by something bigger than themselves. They see the difference between the world as it is and as it could be, and they make a choice to do something about it with courage and conviction. In the depths of the ocean, Explorers reveal underwater worlds that sustain life on Earth. In subterranean caves, they investigate our ancient past and the very roots of humanity. At the edge of extinction, they courageously work to end wildlife trafficking and protect species at risk. On the frontlines of conservation, they help safeguard fragile ecosystems for future generations. They are driving cutting-edge technology and pushing the limits of what is possible.

^{Johannesburg, South Africa, November 6, 2025: National Geographic Explorers take the stage to present fast-paced lightning talks about their work to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world during the 2025 International Explorer Festival Explorer Spotlight. Ntokozo Mbuli is a television and film storyteller and a multi-award-winning factual producer whose core mission is to share untold stories of South Africa's people and environment.}

Explorers Xplored Content Series

The new online short form video series titled Explorers Xplored will shine a spotlight on the work of African Explorers, both emerging and established, aiming to profile the people behind the impact, providing a platform for African voices and perspectives to be seen and heard. Featuring stories from across the continent, the series reveals how locally-rooted insights are informing global conversations around conservation, science, history and education. The first three episodes are now available to view. In the first one, from Cameroon’s coast to the heart of the ocean, we meet Ghofrane Labyedh, a Nat Geo Explorer fighting to protect sharks and rays through science, community, and unstoppable passion:

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Next we see  Moreangels Mbizah a conservation biologist, Nat Geo Explorer, and fierce protector of Africa’s big cats. From her pioneering research on lions to her community-led approach to conservation,  Moreangels is proving that saving wildlife starts with empowering people.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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In the latest episode, we spotlight Tumeletso Setlabosha, a legendary wilderness guide and master poler from Botswana who has spent decades navigating the waterways of the Okavango Delta. His deep connection to the Delta has given him an extraordinary understanding of its wildlife, ecosystems, and ancient navigation routes:

 

 

 

 

 

 

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National Geographic Society

The National Geographic Society is a global nonprofit organisation that uses the power of science, exploration, education and storytelling to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world. Since 1888, it has provided more than 15,000 grants for work across all seven continents, and its educational initiatives reach more than 3 million students annually. Visit the National Geographic Society to learn more, or for regular updates on the African Explorers, the ‘Explorers Xplored’ series, and National Geographic channels and projects in Africa, follow @natgeo_africa.

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