Jane Goodall: The Woman Who Changed How We See the Animal World

On October 1st, 2025, humanity lost one of its most compassionate and visionary figures — Jane Goodall, at the age of 91. But even in her passing, her legacy remains alive in the whispers of the forest, in the eyes of every chimpanzee, and in the hearts of millions across the globe.

For over six decades, Jane Goodall’s groundbreaking work reshaped our understanding of the animal kingdom. It’s a legacy that continues to inspire generations to cherish and protect the Earth and its inhabitants.

A Trailblazer in Animal Research

In 1960, a young Jane Goodall ventured alone into the forests of Gombe, Tanzania, armed only with a notebook, binoculars, and a belief that animals, like humans, experience emotions. At the time, this was a radical idea — scientists believed that only humans were capable of emotions such as love, grief, and empathy.

But Jane’s observations shattered that misconception. She discovered that chimpanzees, our closest relatives, not only used tools but also displayed profound emotional depth. She witnessed them expressing love, compassion, jealousy, and even grief. One of her most revolutionary discoveries was that chimpanzees could use tools — an ability previously thought to be uniquely human. This pivotal moment changed the course of primatology and forever altered our perception of animals.

A Lifetime of Advocacy and Action

Beyond her groundbreaking research, Jane Goodall dedicated her life to animal conservation and environmental protection. She believed in the interconnectedness of all life on Earth and worked tirelessly to defend the habitats of chimpanzees and other wildlife.

Through her organization, the Jane Goodall Institute, she spearheaded global efforts to protect great apes and their environments, often engaging in direct conservation work in Africa. Her advocacy extended beyond animals to the environment as a whole, urging people to consider how human actions impact the planet.

But Jane’s greatest gift to the world may be her ability to inspire the next generation of environmental leaders. Through her Roots & Shoots program, she empowered young people across the globe to take action in their communities, teaching them that every individual can make a difference in the fight to protect nature.

“Every Individual Matters”

As Jane often said, “Every individual matters. Every individual has a role to play. Every individual makes a difference.” These words have become a guiding principle for the millions of people who follow in her footsteps, from conservationists to educators, activists to everyday citizens.

Jane’s message was simple yet profound — that every single one of us has the power to impact the world, whether it’s by protecting a single tree or advocating for entire ecosystems. Her life and work remind us that the fight to protect our planet is a collective effort, and that change begins with each person’s actions, however small they may seem.

The Enduring Legacy of Jane Goodall

Although Jane Goodall is no longer with us, her legacy continues to resonate. Her work has transformed the way we think about animals, encouraging us to see them not as mere creatures to be studied, but as sentient beings deserving of respect and compassion.

Her efforts to protect the natural world, promote biodiversity, and advocate for animal welfare have sparked a global movement that will carry on for generations to come. Jane Goodall has taught us to listen to the Earth — to pay attention to the cries of animals, the rustling of leaves, and the subtle shifts in the environment. She has taught us that we are not separate from nature; we are a part of it.

A Final Thank You

In honoring Jane’s memory, we continue to ask ourselves the questions she posed throughout her life: How can we better care for the planet? How can we protect the animals with whom we share this Earth? And perhaps most importantly: How can we, as individuals, make a positive difference in the world?

Thank you, Jane, for being a voice for the voiceless, for teaching us to see the world with empathy, and for showing us that every individual truly does matter. Your life’s work has left an indelible mark on the world, and your legacy will continue to inspire us for generations to come.

Rest in peace, Jane Goodall.