A Reminder That Ordinary People Can Change the World: A Tribute to Jane Goodall
Dr. Jane Goodall, founder of the Jane Goodall Institute and UN Messenger of Peace, was an individual who worked her entire career tirelessly to bring awareness about threats to our wildlife and promote conservation. Goodall showed the world that true change begins with compassion; for animals, for people, and for the planet we share. She reminded us that every individual has the power to make a difference, no matter how small their actions may seem. As we honor her memory, we continue her mission by empowering the next generation of environmental stewards.
Jane Goodall’s Story
Jane Goodall did not begin her journey as a scientist. She worked as a waitress but carried a lifelong passion for animals. Her path changed when she met renowned paleontologist Louis Leakey, who recognized her potential and invited her to assist with research in Kenya. In 1960, she traveled to Gombe Stream National Park to study wild chimpanzees.
There, Goodall made a groundbreaking discovery: chimpanzees use tools. This finding challenged long-held beliefs about what distinguishes humans from other species. Her research, now spanning over 65 years, continues to deepen our understanding of primates and contributes to conservation efforts worldwide.
In 1977, she founded the Jane Goodall Institute to support her research. Today, the organization operates globally, advancing conservation, research, and community-centered programs. Over time, her work expanded beyond science to include advocacy for human rights, animal welfare, and environmental protection. She believed that inspiring young people was key to creating lasting change.
Roots & Shoots
In 1991, she launched Roots & Shoots, a global program that empowers youth to take action in their communities and make compassionate choices for people, animals, and the environment. Roots & Shoots began with just 12 students in Tanzania and has since grown to reach more than 75 countries. Participants develop leadership skills, critical thinking, and a sense of responsibility toward their communities and the environment.
Organizations like Keep Pinellas Beautiful (KPB) have embraced this mission locally. Over the past three years, KPB has collaborated with Roots & Shoots and 40 other organizations across the Tampa Bay area, engaging more than 10,000 youth at events like the Hope and Action Summit. These initiatives inspire young people to take meaningful steps toward improving their communities.
How to Honor her Memory
Although Jane Goodall has passed, her work continues through all of us. Honoring her legacy means taking action, no matter how small. You can follow her 4-step formula for creating a project in your own community:
Step 1: Get engaged! Creating awareness and compassion for these issues is the first step to understanding the issues in your community.
Step 2: Observe! If you’re unsure of which issue you want to address, create your own network of information and build a foundation of knowledge.
Step 3: Take Action! Now that you have created a background and have more direction, get involved in your community in the way that best suits you. Create a plan and take action!
Step 4: Celebrate! No matter what you decide to do, know that you are taking small steps to make your community a better place. Every step you take is worth celebrating and sharing with others!
Through organizations like Keep Pinellas Beautiful and the Jane Goodall Institute, there are countless ways to get involved. Whether you’re picking up litter, planting native species, or advocating for change, your actions matter.
Jane Goodall reminded us that ordinary people can achieve extraordinary things. By working together and making compassionate choices, we can continue her legacy and build a better future, one step at a time. As Jane Goodall always said, "Together we can. Together we will. Together we must.”