Florence Baker

Florence Baker has embarked on an exciting journey as a research associate in environmental humanities at the University of Cape Town's Environmental Humanities South Unit, while also being a visiting scholar at the Centre for Ecological Studies in Nairobi. With a strong background in literature and environmental studies, Florence's work is deeply rooted in exploring how storytelling can foster a greater connection between humans and nature. She believes that narratives have the power to bridge the gap between scientific knowledge and societal concerns, especially when it comes to climate change and biodiversity loss.

Currently, Florence is focused on a project called "Rivers Remember," which aims to capture the stories of communities living along the Nile River, documenting their experiences with changing water levels and the impact this has on their cultural heritage and daily lives. By collecting these oral histories, she hopes to shed light on the emotional and psychological effects of environmental shifts, such as ecological grief, and to advocate for more empathetic approaches to conservation efforts.

Her research integrates elements from anthropology, hydrology, and community-based participatory methods. The methodologies she employs range from traditional interviews and storytelling workshops to digital mapping and multimedia presentations. Through these diverse techniques, Florence seeks to create a comprehensive understanding of human-nature relationships, emphasizing the importance of local voices in global discussions about sustainability.

Florence completed her doctoral thesis at the University of Cambridge in 2023, where she explored the intersection of narrative theory and environmental ethics. Her work has been featured in prominent journals and media outlets such as BBC World Service, Al Jazeera, National Geographic, and The Guardian. In 2024, she was honored with the African Humanities Program Fellowship, recognizing her innovative approach to bridging disciplines and fostering dialogue between science and society.