Roots & Shoots

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Step 1: Get Inspired

Step 1: Get Inspired.

Hope and inspiration are two of the most powerful catalysts for action. In this step of your Roots & Shoots journey, we want you to get inspired – and to see the change you can be in the world!

Dr. Jane’s Story

In July 1960, Jane Goodall travelled from England to what is now Tanzania to study the little-known world of wild chimpanzees. She was only 26 years old. Many people thought her mission was foolish. She had no formal training or education and, at the time, the idea of a young woman going into the jungle by herself to study wild animals was scandalous. But she knew she had the power to make a difference – and she was absolutely determined.

She stepped off a game warden’s boat onto the shores of Gombe, equipped with little more than a notebook, binoculars, and her fascination with wildlife. The game warden later said he thought he’d never see her alive again.

Jane spent months trying to get close to the chimpanzees, but they didn’t trust her. As soon as she saw one, it would run away. One day, however, an alpha who Jane had nicknamed “David Greybeard” let Jane follow him. He seemed curious about this woman who had been hanging around for so long. He began to trust Jane. As a result, David’s community began to trust her, too. They let her observe from a distance, without running off. And her observations changed the world.

​Her breakthrough discovery came when she observed David Greybeard fishing for termites. He used grass to reach into termite holes and collect termites to eat. This is the first-known observation of tool-making in the animal kingdom. Jane also observed compassion, community building, tribal conflicts, mother-child bonds, selflessness, affection, and a need for connection in these chimpanzee troops. 

Through her groundbreaking work, Dr. Jane Goodall not only showed us the urgent need to protect chimpanzees from extinction – she has also redefined species conservation to include the needs of local people and the environment. She spent decades travelling around the world – writing, speaking, and spreading hope through action, encouraging each of us to “use the gift of our life to make the world a better place.”

Dr. Jane recorded this message to everyone starting their Roots & Shoots journey. Watch to learn more about her story – and to get inspired:

There is a powerful force unleashed when young people resolve to make a change.

Dr. Jane Goodall