Bennett True's Leadership-in-Action project brought him to the Hoedspruit Reptile Centre in Limpopo, South Africa, where he worked to raise awareness about snake conservation and the global issue of snakebites. The Centre's mission, "conservation through education and research," aligned with Bennett's passion for biochemistry and wildlife conservation. He delved into the complex global burden of snakebite envenomation, which claims up to 135,000 lives annually, with Sub-Saharan Africa being one of the most affected regions.

Bennett's work included hands-on conservation efforts, public education, and the promotion of the Centre's antivenom bank. This bank provides vital antivenoms to hospitals and clinics, helping to reduce the risk of fatal snakebites in local communities. In addition to supporting snakebite prevention, Bennett was involved in community outreach programs where he led snake demonstrations for schools, families, and community members. These demonstrations aimed to dispel fears surrounding snakes, showing that with proper knowledge and handling, snakes can coexist peacefully with humans. Bennett shared that most snakes are harmless and stressed the importance of understanding their behavior.

Throughout his presentation, Bennett highlighted the importance of reptiles as indicator species, whose presence often signals a healthy ecosystem. He noted that while high-profile animals such as elephants and lions receive ample conservation resources, reptiles often face neglect despite their crucial ecological role. His time at the Centre allowed him to witness firsthand the cultural challenges surrounding reptile conservation, including long-standing beliefs and fears about snakes.

Bennett also faced personal growth challenges during his work. He described how he adapted to the high-stress environment of handling venomous snakes and conducting public demonstrations. One standout moment was when he led a live demonstration, showing children how to handle snakes safely, emphasizing the importance of education to prevent unnecessary fear and conflict between humans and reptiles.

The Centre's snake call-out program was another key aspect of Bennett's work. This free service helped community members safely remove venomous snakes from their homes, reinforcing the Centre's commitment to ethical wildlife conservation. Bennett also shared his experience in deworming reptiles, handling invasive species like ball pythons, and his contributions to snake rehabilitation.

Come hear Bennett’s journey as he shares how he combined his interests in biochemistry and conservation to tackle a global health issue and make a difference in the world of reptile conservation. Learn how his work in South Africa has inspired him to continue developing safer and more affordable antivenoms in the future.