Ursula Wellmann

Manager Biodiversity and Nature @ICLEI - Local Governments for Sustainability

ConsultingEducationPolitical ConsultantSoft Skills TrainerEngagement Manager

Ursula Wellmann is an impact-driven sustainability specialist with over 15 years of experience leading inclusive, multi-stakeholder development initiatives across Africa. With a strong foundation in socio-economic development, biodiversity, and the green economy, she has successfully managed high-impact projects funded by international donors, securing and directing multi-million Rand budgets. Her expertise spans strategic leadership, cross-disciplinary team management, grant acquisition, stakeholder engagement and equitable development. Currently managing ICLEI Africa’s nature and biodiversity portfolio, Ursula drives regional strategies aligned with global climate and biodiversity frameworks (CBD and UNFCCC). Her background includes key roles at GreenCape and the Atlantis Special Economic Zone for Green Technologies Manufacturing, where she advanced enterprise and skills development to foster sustainable, localised economic growth. Ursula combines policy insight with hands-on implementation, evidenced in her work on the South African solar PV quality assurance, community engagement strategies for various African cities, coupled with concept development for urban green infrastructure projects. With a BA in Social Science (PPP) and professional development from UCT’s Graduate School of Business and IUCN, she brings analytical depth, resilience, and a collaborative ethos to her work. Ursula is fluent in English, German, and Afrikaans and speaks French at Advanced level and Xhosa at Beginner level.