Sven Lindblad
Sven Lindblad’s journey into conservation began in Tsavo East, Kenya’s largest national park, where he worked fresh out of college photographing elephants. “Those years were formative,” Sven reflects. “I was surrounded by extraordinary people — scientists, filmmakers, naturalists — all deeply connected to the natural world. It altered my sense of purpose.”
That purpose became a lifelong mission to inspire people to protect the planet. In 1979, Sven founded Lindblad Expeditions to connect travelers with nature’s wonders. “The idea was simple: If you expose people to the beauty and fragility of the natural world, they’ll develop a sense of responsibility and a desire to protect it.”
Sven’s connection with Rare began in the 1980s when he met Brett Jenks and Paul Butler, the mastermind behind Rare’s early Pride campaigns. “Paul’s vision was remarkable. He turned local species into cultural icons, using pride and community engagement to drive conservation. It was strategic, effective, and inspiring.”
Over time, Sven has supported Rare’s mission in myriad ways, from hosting fundraising expeditions aboard Lindblad ships to investing in and championing Rare’s work on various fronts. One of his favorite memories with Rare was when he was at the Sea of Cortez. “We were hosting Rare supporters aboard one of our ships, and it turned into an unforgettable day. We found a mega-pod of dolphins, had a beach barbecue, and shared Rare’s story with our guests (one of whom was Chevy Chase). It was so much fun — a great reminder of why we do this work.”
For Sven, philanthropy is about investment. “I don’t love the word philanthropy,” he admits. “To me, it’s about investing in the assets we rely on — like nature. If you have a boat, you maintain it. If you have a planet, you protect it.” This philosophy guides both his giving and the work of the Lindblad-National Geographic Fund, which he co-founded to support conservation initiatives worldwide. “I view everything in relation to the environment as an investment,” he further shares.
As Sven rejoins Rare’s Board of Trustees and steps into a new role – as Co-Chair of Lindblad Expeditions – he remains committed to advancing conservation. “Rare’s work is uniquely effective,” he says. “And if you’re going to back something, you want it to be effective.”
Rare’s mission aligns with Sven’s vision of reconnecting humanity with nature. “We need an attitude overhaul globally,” he says. “We have to see ourselves as part of nature, not apart from it. There are bright spots — places where conservation is working. It reminds us that we can change if we have the will.”
Read about more of Rare’s donors
