Jane Goodall: The Inspiration of Jane Goodall
“A series for those in need of a little estrogen-sprinkled inspiration.”
Jane Goodall is a world-renowned primatologist, ethologist, and anthropologist whose work has helped shape the way we understand animal behaviour. Her research has impacted our understanding of the relationship between humans and animals, and she is a powerful advocate for conservationism and environmental protection. She is also an excellent role model for young adults and teenagers who are looking for inspiration in their lives.
Putting in the Work
Goodall’s career began in 1960 when she travelled to Tanzania as an untrained 26-year-old to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Through her observations, she established that chimpanzees use tools in the wild — upending the belief that only humans made tools. This discovery revolutionized our understanding of animal behaviour and earned her a place amongst the world’s most influential scientists. In 1977, she founded the Jane Goodall Institute (JGI), which works to protect chimpanzees from extinction in their native habitats by working with local communities to promote conservation efforts.
Her Impact
Goodall’s work has been recognized around the world; among her many accolades are 33 honorary degrees from universities across six continents and being named a United Nations Messenger of Peace by Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in 2002. Despite all of these achievements, what makes Jane Goodall such an inspirational role model for young people is her passion for her work. As she once said, “You cannot get through a single day without having an impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” Her life’s mission is one that encourages everyone to be mindful about making positive choices that will help create a better future for both humans and animals alike — something that all young people can strive towards achieving no matter what field they find themselves in later on in life.
Jane Goodall is more than just an iconic scientist — she is also a perfect example of how passion and dedication can lead to real change in this world. She’s someone who demonstrates how anyone can make meaningful contributions if they are willing to put in some hard work and stay true to their beliefs. Young adults everywhere should look up to her as an example of how anyone with enough determination can achieve greatness no matter where they come from or what obstacles they face along the way. We could all benefit from taking some time out of our day to reflect upon her legacy — it might just give us the push we need to get out there and make this world a better place.