Dr Stephanie Midgley is the Specialist Scientist for Climate Change at the Western Cape Department of Agriculture. She is also an Associate Professor Extraordinary in the Department of Horticultural Science at Stellenbosch University.
Stephanie navigates the boundaries between Agriculture and Environment by taking a holistic approach to landscape-level natural resources management, risk reduction and building climate resilience, while remaining grounded in the practical and economic realities of farming. She holds an MSc(Agric) in Horticultural Science from Stellenbosch University, and a PhD in Botany from the University of Cape Town. She has 35 years’ experience in research and policy on climate change and regularly engages with a wide range of audiences across research, government and practice.
Louise Stafford, The Nature Conservancy, South Africa Country Director
Louise Stafford is a seasoned conservation leader with over two decades of experience in natural resource management. She leads TNC’s South Africa’s program, driving large-scale conservation initiatives that protect biodiversity, enhance water security, and support sustainable livelihoods.
Under her leadership, TNC South Africa is expanding its impact by implementing innovative financing mechanisms, fostering public-private partnerships, and advancing science-based conservation solutions. Louise played a pivotal role in establishing the Greater Cape Town Water Fund, a globally recognized model for using nature-based solutions to secure water. She continues to champion the role of Water Funds and other blended finance mechanisms to mobilize investment in nature.
She has extensive experience working at the intersection of policy, finance, and conservation to ensure lasting environmental and socio-economic benefits.
Louise holds a Master of Science in Entomology from Rhodes University, where her research focused on the biological control of aquatic weeds.
Title: The Inner Work of Stewardship
Sharon Deal is an Emotional Intelligence Coach, facilitator and leadership development practitioner with more than 25 years’ experience as a leader and business owner in the corporate environment. She works with entrepreneurs, executives, teams and organisations to build emotionally healthy, values-led and courageous cultures.
Sharon’s work focuses on emotional intelligence, positive intelligence, conversational intelligence, leadership development, trust, team transformation and personal growth. She is passionate about helping leaders understand who they are, regulate how they show up under pressure, and lead from authenticity, integrity and courage. Through coaching, facilitation, workshops, training and retreats, Sharon partners with individuals and teams to build the mental fitness, emotional stability and relational trust needed for meaningful collaboration and change. Her work is rooted in the belief that stewardship begins within — and that courageous, self-aware people create healthier teams, cultures and communities.
Natural systems across the globe are being pushed to the brink—and the Cape Floristic Region is no exception. Climate change, habitat transformation, and biodiversity loss are reshaping ecosystems at an unprecedented pace. Nature is on the edge.
At the same time, conservation itself is increasingly defined by uncertainty. Scientists, land managers, policymakers, and practitioners are working in conditions that are constantly shifting, where outcomes are unpredictable and stability is no longer guaranteed. We are all working at the edge.
The 2026 Fynbos Forum conference, Working Together at the Edge, invites contributions that engage with this reality. What does it mean to conserve biodiversity in a world of instability? How do we make decisions and take action in the face of uncertainty?
We welcome papers that explore ecological thresholds, resilience, and adaptation, as well as the human dimensions of conservation—collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and working across boundaries. Contributions may include research, case studies, and perspectives that reflect the challenges and opportunities of conserving biodiversity under changing conditions.
By bringing together diverse voices, this conference aims to foster collaboration and inspire new approaches to navigating uncertainty and supporting the long-term resilience of fynbos ecosystems.
Standard Rates from 13 June 2026
Abstract Submission Close: 30 May 2026 (Extended to 7 June)
04 – 06 August 2026, ATKV Goudini Spa
EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION FEES (until 12 June 2026)
Rates include dinners, scientific programme and electronic proceedings
Please read and follow the abstract guidelines carefully.
They are provided here as a guide to help you plan in advance, and can be found here
Welcome to ATKV Goudini Spa – in the heart of the Boland mountains, just outside Worcester. Surrounded by majestic natural beauty and vineyards, this popular resort offers the ideal escape for families, couples and nature lovers seeking rest, adventure and quality time together. ATKV Goudini Spa also features modern four-star conference facilities, making it the perfect choice for professional events in an inspiring setting. Here, relaxation and excellence come together to make every visit truly unforgettable.
IMPORTANT: Negotiated rates below only through the booking system below. Contact at Goudini: Mustafa Solomons (MustaphaS@atkv.org.za)
Accommodation Rates:
Luxury Rondawel
Slanghoek Villas (Single) per person per night R2,960
IMPORTANT Note: the invoice/quote will be raised to the delegate making the booking at the full cost for sharing units
