Kyle Saiki holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from San José State University and is currently pursuing his Master’s degree at the University of California, Santa Cruz. With a strong interest in computer vision and edge AI, he is focused on developing technology that can support wildlife conservation.

At the Kashmir World Foundation, Kyle serves as Team Lead for Team Blackbird, where he leads the development of an internal simulation tool designed to virtually model wildlife cameras for poacher detection. He also develops software to support the testing and analysis of AI models used in KwF’s bioacoustics research.

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Princess Aliyah Pandolfi is a visionary polymath pioneering the future of wildlife conservation through bold innovation and cross-disciplinary expertise. Drawing on extensive experience leading cutting-edge projects that integrate aerospace engineering, artificial intelligence, bioacoustics, and autonomous systems, she creates transformative technologies to protect endangered species and combat poaching globally. Driven by a passion to empower communities and ignite a global movement, Princess Aliyah mentors and inspires the next generation of changemakers, championing intergenerational collaboration as the key to sustaining our planet’s biodiversity. Rooted in her royal heritage from Kashmir—a region facing critical wildlife threats—she transforms this legacy into a powerful call to action, designing solutions today that safeguard Earth’s most vulnerable species for generations yet to come.

Dr. Pandolfi, CTO of KwF, leads the organization in implementing anti-poaching projects with over 40 years of experience in surveillance, communications, robotics, aircraft, and weapons systems. He founded and directs the Technology Assisted Counter-Poaching (TACP) network, equipping rangers and ground forces for 30 years to combat poachers and trafficking of endangered species.To inspire creativity and collaboration, Dr. Pandolfi engineered the multi-copter drone kits for educational and instructional use. During the KwF workshops, Dr. Pandolfi lectures students on open-source hardware, software, mission-focused applications, onboard processing, and self-learning algorithms on single-board computers and sensors integrated into autonomous unmanned aerial systems.

Daan Eeltink is the Director of A.I. Operations at Kashmir World Foundation, where he leads the Artificial Intelligence and Software Development Teams with oversight across AI modeling, software systems, hardware integration, and bioacoustics research. Based in The Netherlands, Daan is pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Bioinformatics at Leiden University, specializing in artificial intelligence and computer science applied to biology. Since joining KwF in July 2021, Daan has played a pivotal role in advancing conservation technology through the development of wildlife detection models, autonomous drone operations, and real-time acoustic monitoring. His contributions span critical projects protecting endangered species—from sea turtles and snow leopards to sentinel species in the rainforest—transforming innovative AI solutions into field-ready tools for biodiversity protection.

Head of the Tamandua Biological Station in the Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica, Rebeca Quirós leads diverse research and conservation initiatives. With 20 years of experience as a naturalist guide in Corcovado National Park and its surrounding areas, she has served as the Drake Bay Naturalist Guides Association President for over a decade. A dedicated local manager and community leader, Rebeca has played a pivotal role in various organized local groups. Additionally, she owns Caligo de Osa Apartments, bringing extensive experience in tourism and customer service.

Sammy Gray holds a Master’s in Computer Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics. With a passion for integrating artificial intelligence into complex biological and environmental systems, Sammy has worked on projects ranging from acoustic signal analysis and parameter estimation in ecology to mathematical modeling of microbial genomes. At KwF, he leads the BioAcoustics NLP Research Team, contributing to the development of the Universal Translator—an AI system designed to decode the language of the jungle for threat identification by interpreting the vocalizations of sentinel species.

Qian Fu leads the Machine Learning Engineering team at the Kashmir World Foundation, where she designs ML systems that turn rainforest sound recordings into actionable insights for conservation. With a Master’s in Applied Data Science from the University of Michigan, she is passionate about applying rigorous machine learning methods to challenges where the stakes extend far beyond business metrics.

Qian has been part of the KwF team for over a year and a half, contributing to the advancement of AI-driven conservation technologies and bioacoustics research initiatives. Her work focuses on developing scalable machine learning pipelines and analytical tools that support ecosystem monitoring, species identification, and threat detection in rainforest environments.

Based in Illinois, she spends her free time solving puzzles, cooking, and practicing belly dance.

Jordan Triolo holds a Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering from UCLA and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering at the University of Washington, with a specialization in Control Systems. As the Team Lead for Stability and Control on the Eagle Ray aircraft project, he is dedicated to developing a highly efficient and agile platform. Jordan emphasizes collaboration across a multidisciplinary team, leveraging collective expertise to push the boundaries of unmanned aircraft performance. His passion lies in advancing control technologies that improve the stability, maneuverability, and mission effectiveness of next-generation aerial systems.

Mia is a junior at Chapman University, majoring in Broadcast Journalism and Documentary with minors in Graphic Design and History. She has been creating documentaries since middle school and has received recognition for her work from organizations including National History Day, the Smithsonian, and the Better Angels Society. Her work combines storytelling, research, and visual communication to explore meaningful stories and bring complex subjects to life.

Kashmir Rose Pandolfi is a 13-year-old multidisciplinary powerhouse: scientist, engineer, artist, physicist, and explorer. She began building drones at age 5 and quickly channeled her curiosity into KwF’s mission—using technology and creativity to protect wildlife and decode the hidden rhythms of nature. From leading the Birds of Osa Research Team deep in the Costa Rican rainforest to collaborating with AI experts to interpret bird language through bioacoustics, Kashmir bridges science, engineering, and storytelling with fearless determination. She’s traveled to over 40 countries studying ecosystems, building connections, and sharing discoveries with a global audience. Kashmir is also a passionate public speaker, engaging crowds at Girls in Technology events and STEAM conferences, where she empowers young minds—especially girls—to dive into science, embrace curiosity, and invent boldly.Beyond the lab and jungle, she expresses herself through mixed media art and ice skating, proving that creativity fuels innovation in every field. Kashmir isn’t just building drones; she’s building the future—and inviting others to fly with her.

Clarke, Director of Creative Strategy at KwF, merges artistic innovation with strategic communication. With a background in animation, audio engineering, and video art from VCUarts’ Kinetic Imaging program, she brings a multidisciplinary approach to storytelling and brand development. Clarke provides strategic leadership across all creative outputs, guiding the direction and impact of KwF’s storytelling, branding, and multimedia experiences. Beyond this role, she is the founder of an athleticwear brand Entinge where fashion and femininity meet functionality. Combining skills in content creation, marketing strategy, and visual design, Clarke blends passion for fashion, entrepreneurship, and cultural awareness to craft compelling narratives that connect audiences to mission-driven work. She has developed and led numerous successful digital campaigns, enhancing audience engagement and elevating brand presence through visually striking and emotionally resonant content. At KwF, Clarke also contributes to educational initiatives, mentoring students and interns in visual communication, trend forecasting, and brand identity—empowering the next generation to support conservation efforts through creative innovation.

Brian Colding holds a Master’s degree from Oakland University and is an aspiring journalist with a strong passion for conservation storytelling. At the Kashmir World Foundation, he contributed as both a scriptwriter and voiceover artist for the "Beyond the Noise" documentary, helping to bring critical conservation issues to life through a compelling narrative. In addition, Brian supports marketing and outreach initiatives, leveraging social media and digital engagement strategies to broaden KwF’s impact and inspire action for wildlife conservation.

Griffin is a Computer Science student at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, with a minor in Mathematics. He serves as Team Lead for the BioAcoustics DeepData Project, guiding the development of AI models that extract critical insights from rainforest soundscapes. Involved since the project's inception, Griffin contributed to its early research design and participated in the field expedition to Costa Rica, where he deployed acoustic sensors and collected bioacoustic data from sentinel species. He now leads the team responsible for processing that data, applying machine learning to detect environmental threats and assess ecosystem health. With experience that bridges fieldwork and AI-driven analysis, Griffin plays a key role in advancing data-driven conservation strategies.

Lauren Rousell is a Software Engineer and Game Programmer. She is a recent graduate of Kennesaw State University with a B.S. in Computer Game Design and Development. Lauren is passionate about designing and developing games of all types with an emphasis on creating impactful experiences. In development, she specializes in mechanics, AI, and user interface design. Outside of game development, Lauren enjoys riding horses, competing in esports, and volunteering in her community.

Lauren has been part of the KwF team for over two years, contributing to multiple interactive education and conservation technology initiatives. She previously worked as a developer and programmer on the KwF Counter-Poaching Game and later served as Team Lead for the Choose Your Own Adventure (CYOA) Game initiative. While now working full time professionally, Lauren continues to support KwF in an advisory capacity while actively contributing to gameplay mechanics, development, and creative direction for ongoing projects.

A native of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, Jonah Brainard is a senior at Ithaca College majoring in Film and Photography. Over the past six years, he has developed a wide-ranging portfolio that includes student films, documentaries, freelance videography, and private client work. An award-winning filmmaker, Jonah brings strong skills in directing, cinematography, editing, and photography. His work spans psychological thrillers, comedies, nature documentaries, and aerial imagery. With his creative versatility and passion for the outdoors, Jonah is contributing to several exciting projects at KwF, where his storytelling talents and visual artistry continue to grow in dynamic and meaningful ways.