From the Forest of Gombe to the Heart of the World

In 1977, Jane Goodall was no longer just a scientist observing chimpanzees — she became a game-changer.

That year, she founded the Jane Goodall Institute (JGI), a small organization with a monumental vision: to protect wildlife, preserve forests, and awaken compassion within humanity. The organization’s mission was simple yet profound: to foster a deeper connection between people and the natural world, empowering communities to protect the planet for future generations.

By 1986, at the International Chimpanzee Conference in Chicago, Jane stood before hundreds of researchers and declared:
“We’ve learned enough about them. Now it’s time to save them.”
With that powerful statement, Jane left the research lab behind. She no longer saw herself as just a scientist. With only her heart and faith to guide her, she began traveling the world, speaking passionately about the need to protect our forests, animals, and the future of our planet.

No one could have predicted that the quiet young woman who once sat in the wilderness, observing chimpanzees in their natural habitat, would go on to become a global symbol of empathy and action. Her quiet strength and profound compassion transcended science, growing into a worldwide movement that continues to inspire millions today.

Today, Jane’s legacy is more than just science — it’s a global movement of activism, conservation, and kindness. Her voice serves as a reminder to us all that:

“When you change the way you see the world, you can change the world itself.”

Jane Goodall’s vision continues to resonate, urging each of us to reconsider our relationship with the Earth and its inhabitants. It is a call to action, a plea for compassion, and a hope that we can all contribute to a world where nature and humanity thrive together.