Empowering Women Through Conservation: The Growth of Women Hunt

In a world where traditional gender roles often discourage women from exploring outdoor activities, the Women Hunt program stands as a beacon of empowerment and education. Celebrating its fifth year, this initiative not only teaches women the art of hunting but also underscores the vital role hunting plays in wildlife conservation. With the current application period open for 2025, interested women are encouraged to delve into this enriching experience.

One standout story is that of Jamie Benn, a TWS member who harvested her first buck thanks to the skills and knowledge acquired during the Women Hunt program. Reflecting on her experience, Benn stated, "It was bittersweet in a way—I just took this life, but this is how it all works to keep our populations sustainable and nature conservation going." Her journey exemplifies the program's mission: to create connections between hunters and the conservation community.

The program’s impact extends beyond just hunting skills. Corey Mason, COO of the Wild Sheep Foundation, emphasizes the importance of connecting natural resource professionals with hands-on experiences. He notes that many professionals working in wildlife conservation have not had the chance to engage actively in hunting, making Women Hunt a vital platform for fostering this connection.

With the theme of community at its core, Women Hunt offers a supportive space for women from various backgrounds. Many participants, like Hannah Dinell, have not traditionally been exposed to hunting but are passionate about the outdoors. Dinell shares, "It offered a chance to grow not only as an outdoorswoman but also as a conservationist." This sentiment echoes the program's success in bridging the gap between personal interest and responsible engagement in hunting practices.

Renée Thornton, the program's creator, aims to expand this community further, creating opportunities for women interested in hunting and those who support it from the sidelines. "The future is ridiculously bright for Women Hunt," she enthusiastically asserts, reflecting on the growing traction the program is receiving.

As the Women Hunt community continues to thrive, it illustrates a powerful narrative about women reclaiming their place in the outdoors, fostering camaraderie, and participating in conservation efforts through hunting. As we look forward to the upcoming application period, one question looms: how can more women become a part of this transformative experience?

Share your thoughts in the comments below—have you participated in a program like Women Hunt, or do you see the value in connecting outdoor experiences with wildlife conservation?

• Hunting Education
• Wildlife Conservation
• Women Hunt