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In an era where climate anxiety and environmental uncertainty often dominate our headlines, the world recently paused to honor the passing of the legendary Dr. Jane Goodall. As a world-renowned ethologist and humanitarian, Dr. Goodall sparked a global movement rooted in compassion. Today, the question of “what comes next” is being answered by those she trusted most. Azzedine Downes, President and CEO of the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW) and a member of the Jane Goodall Legacy Foundation’s Council for Hope, is uniquely positioned to carry this torch. He reminds us that hope is not merely a feeling; it is a practical, proven strategy for change that must now be translated from a message into collective action.
For many, the scale of environmental challenges feels overwhelming, leading to a sense of paralysis. Downes suggests that the antidote to this despair is shifting our perspective from “taking on every problem at once” to embracing small, manageable steps. Hope, in this context, is a conscious choice to remain positive and refuse to give up. By surrounding ourselves with positivity and focusing on incremental improvements, we can vanquish despair. Downes emphasizes that change is not just possible—it is already at work in communities across the globe, proving that when individuals choose to act, the results are measurable and real.
Central to this movement is our profound connectivity with the animal kingdom. Animals remain one of humanity’s greatest sources of hope because they offer a sense of innocence and, often, unconditional love. Downes reflects on how Dr. Goodall’s own dog—rather than the chimpanzees she studied—first taught her about that bond. Whether it is our pets at home or the wildlife we strive to protect, animals remind us of our place within the natural world. Being curious about their roles and understanding our shared connectivity is a vital part of the human experience, offering a healthy outlet for empathy in an increasingly uncertain world.
Looking ahead, the future of conservation lies in changing human behavior and respecting the communities that live alongside wildlife. Historically, conservation focused strictly on population science, but Downes argues that true protection begins with how humans view the world. Nature is remarkably patient and resilient—evidenced by how quickly it rebounded during the pandemic—but it requires us to stop working against it. To honor Dr. Goodall’s legacy, we must first believe in the power of hope and then simply step outside. By experiencing the healing powers of nature—listening to the wind or the rustling leaves—we find the calm necessary to protect a planet that, if allowed, will ultimately protect us.
If you would like to find more information about IFAW, please visit IFAW.org or find them on Instagram @ifawglobal.
