At MTKS, we are driven by a deep passion for the world around us—its adventures, technological innovations, and the incredible wildlife we share it with. Through film, photography, and various other mediums, we share our experiences globally, promoting our core values and the technology that enables our work.
Our commitment to nature, wildlife conservation, technology, and extreme exploration is at the heart of everything we do. Join us on our journey as we create unique media, covering topics from documentaries and wildlife interactions to extreme sports, attractions, incredible events, product testing and reviews. We also promote remarkable locations and adventures, and recommend products we believe in strongly.
In 1989, the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) banned the international trade in ivory. However, there are still some thriving but unregulated domestic ivory markets in a number of countries, which fuel an illegal international trade. Poaching to meet growing demand from affluent Asian countries is driving up the rate of poaching. In some countries, political unrest contributes to elephant poaching. Ivory-seeking poachers have killed 100,000 African elephants in just three years, according to a new study that provides the first reliable continent-wide estimates of illegal kills. During 2011 alone, roughly one of every twelve African elephants was killed by a poacher.
Learn MoreDirect poaching of gorillas, either killing of gorillas or capture of infants for the live animal trade, remains a real threat, with unfortunate incidences of poaching occurring throughout the mountain gorilla range in 2002, 2004, 2007. And most recently in 2013 the case of an infant recovered outside of Virunga National Park, abandoned in a field with clear signs of being held captive. The infant was determined through a genetic test to be a mountain gorilla.
Learn MoreRhino poaching is currently at a crisis point. By the end of 2015, the number of African rhinos killed by poachers had increased for the sixth year in a row with at least 1,338 rhinos killed by poachers across Africa in 2015. Today, black rhinos remain Critically Endangered because of rising demand for rhino horn, which has driven poaching to record levels. A recent increase in poaching in South Africa threatens to erase all conservation success. The increase is driven by a growing demand from some Asian consumers, particularly in Vietnam, for folk remedies containing rhino horn.
Learn MoreIn early 2011, MTKS founder Matthew Belyea faced a life-altering moment when his closest friend, Trevor, was diagnosed with Burkitt's lymphoma and given slim odds of survival. This tragic news profoundly impacted Matt, bringing a sharp realization of life's fleeting nature and the many adventures the world holds.
During Trevor's battle with cancer, the two friends often spoke about the incredible experiences they would pursue once Trevor overcame his illness. These conversations were filled with dreams of exploring the world and embarking on new adventures. Trevor’s unwavering positivity and courage throughout his ordeal deeply transformed Matt's perspective, instilling in him a renewed sense of purpose.
Against the odds, Trevor fought valiantly, enduring extreme surgeries, harsh treatments, and numerous scares. Remarkably, at the one-year mark, Trevor was declared cancer-free—a milestone that has held true to this day.
Inspired by Trevor's resilience and the celebration of life, Matt founded MTKS. Our mission is to share our experiences and adventures with people everywhere, whether they find themselves in a hospital bed or atop a mountain. We hope to inspire others to embrace life's journey and the wonders it holds.
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