Testimonials
Trusted When It Matters Most
Curtis worked on a long-term training project with one of our conservation partners in Africa during 2024, as the Chief Instructor. He collaborated with ESPA on an extended training programme, contributed to improving the partner’s internal anti-poaching procedures, and provided strategic advice on law enforcement operations. His efforts have significantly strengthened the operational effectiveness of the rangers and enhanced security management within the protected area. His work has enhanced the anti-poaching efforts of the ranger force and improved the protection of vulnerable species such as rhinos.
ESPA carefully selects all instructors to ensure they are capable of addressing the complex requirements involved in effective conservation law enforcement while complying with international human rights standards. Curtis successfully achieved all objectives, provided effective leadership to his support staff and ranger students, collaborated efficiently with the project manager and partners, and is recognised as an exceptional instructor and security advisor with exemplary interpersonal skills.
I have worked with Curtis on multiple journalistic assignments in both Ukraine and the Middle East. As our high-risk adviser, Curtis was responsible for organising logistics, security and driving for myself and a small team on the ground. He showed great skill in navigating volatile situations with professionalism and sensitivity. Perceptive and well-organised, Curtis enabled us to carry out reporting tasks smoothly and safely. His understanding of the risks we faced as well as the challenges of reporting in certain contexts made him stand out as a security adviser.
Curtis was absolutely integral to the production of our Emmy-nominated Wall Street Journal video. In one of the most complex and dangerous environments we have ever worked in, he kept us safe, calm and focused, often under intense shelling and chaos. His composure, local knowledge and ability to assess situations in real time probably saved lives. I cannot imagine going back into a zone like that without him.
I have worked with Curtis for several years on different stories and conflicts, from Ukraine to Syria to Lebanon. On each and every occasion Curtis has proven to be able to maintain a balance between security and the story he is working on. Without a doubt, his experience in assessing and reacting to risks has made our work safer, allowing us to focus more on our work as reporters and, therefore, increasing the final quality of my work.