Markus Gilles

Markus Gilles is the CEO and Co-Founder of Planet Wild, a Berlin-based organization focused on environmental restoration and community engagement. Founded in 2019, Planet Wild aims to create a global community dedicated to rewilding efforts, including bringing back endangered species, cleaning up oceans, and restoring forests. The organization operates on a membership model, where contributions are directed towards impactful environmental projects vetted by the team.135

Background and Education

Markus Gilles has a diverse educational background, having studied Sociology, Political Science, and Cultural Studies at Freie Universität Berlin, where he graduated with distinction. He also studied at Université Paris Sorbonne and the University of Toronto.2 His early career included roles in political communication and public service, notably as a Student Assistant at the German Parliament and later as Project Leader at the Berlin State Assembly.4

Entrepreneurial Journey

Before founding Planet Wild, Gilles co-founded several startups, including Klima, which focuses on climate action, and Mighty, a self-defense fitness initiative. His entrepreneurial journey reflects a commitment to social and environmental causes, leveraging technology for positive impact.24

Vision for Planet Wild

Under Gilles' leadership, Planet Wild seeks to empower individuals to participate in meaningful environmental actions. The organization emphasizes transparency in its operations by providing detailed reports on how member contributions are utilized for various conservation missions.35 Gilles envisions Planet Wild as a platform that not only addresses urgent ecological issues but also fosters a sense of community among those passionate about the planet's health.13