Sacha Huagra, Mountain Tapir Conservation in the Colombian Massif. Sacha Huagra aims to develop a conservation strategy applicable to various Andean regions, focusing on community welfare and long-term conservation through its pilot project, "Mountain Tapir Conservation in the Colombian Massif."

Get to know Sacha Huagra up close!

Founder
Sergio Sandoval has been a member of the IUCN Tapir Specialist Group (TSG) since 2001. Director of the first international project for the conservation of the mountain tapir in Colombia, led by the Cali Zoo, Los Angeles Zoo, and Puracé National Natural Park between 2003 and 2005. In that same period, he participated in the design of the action plans of the tapirs of Colombia and the IUCN mountain tapir action plan. He is currently the general director of the Mountain Tapir Forever project, which has the support and participation of the Alto Magdalena Regional Autonomous Corporation (CAM), Puracé National Natural Park, Los Angeles Zoo, USA, Merenberg Foundation, Neotropical Foundation, Association Footprints of the Massif and the University of Cambridge, UK.

Founder
Michiel is an ecologist and evolutionary biologist from the University of Amsterdam. He is part of the International League of Conservation Photographers and through his work as a conservation photographer, Michiel has collaborated with multiple conservation organizations such as Foundation Conservation Carpathia, Nai Conservation, Proyecto Tapir Nicaragua, and Ark Rewilding. Michiel uses photography to give a voice to scientists, conservationists, or the local community working to protect the rapidly declining, but amazing natural world.

Our Board

Shèraga van Wetten

BOARD MEMBER / Secretary
Shèraga is an aquatic biologist, working for Rijkswaterstaat, where she plays a role in shaping both water policy and the conservation of the aquatic ecosystems in the Netherlands. With a strong scientific background, Sheraga has been a key collaborator on various conservation projects, highlighting her dedication to advancing ecological understanding. Sheraga's diverse skills and her genuine love for nature make her a valuable asset to the Sacha Huagra Foundation.
David Hup

BOARD MEMBER / Chairman
David Hup, photographer, and founder of a reanimation education company, is captivated by the delicate interplay between humanity and nature. David skillfully employs photography to spotlight our impact on ecosystems, aiming to foster awareness and pave the way for sustainable coexistence. His organizational acumen ensures the effective execution of projects aligned with the conservation vision of Sacha Huagra.
Maarten Wetselaar

BOARD MEMBER / Treasurer
Running his own company with sustainable materials in construction, Maarten is driven by implementing eco-friendly practices, fostering financial transparency, and promoting ethical financial management for a greener and more sustainable future. Beyond his professional life, he actively participates in community initiatives, such as Buurtboerderij Nieuweg, a permaculture farm contributing to the neighborhood's well-being