Dr. Jane Goodall Named PETA’s 2025 Person of the Year: A Lifetime of Compassion and Change

In 2025, PETA has honored Dr. Jane Goodall with the prestigious title of Person of the Year, recognizing a lifetime of dedication to changing how humans view and treat animals. A pioneer in the field of primatology, Dr. Goodall’s groundbreaking work in the forests of Gombe has not only transformed our understanding of chimpanzees but also reshaped the way we approach the relationship between humans and the animal kingdom.

From Gombe to Global Movements: A Legacy of Compassion

Dr. Jane Goodall’s journey began in the early 1960s when she ventured into the forests of Gombe, Tanzania, to study chimpanzees in the wild. What began as a scientific mission quickly evolved into a passionate commitment to advocating for the rights and dignity of animals. Through her research, Goodall made a revolutionary discovery: chimpanzees, like humans, have complex emotions, social bonds, and even the ability to use tools. Her groundbreaking observations shattered the longstanding belief that humans were unique in these abilities, forever altering the scientific community’s view of animal intelligence.

But Goodall’s work extends far beyond chimpanzees. Through the Jane Goodall Institute and Roots & Shoots, her global initiatives have inspired millions to take action for animals, people, and the planet. From promoting wildlife conservation to addressing human rights and environmental sustainability, Goodall’s influence has been nothing short of transformative. Her message is simple yet profound: “Every animal is someone, not something.”

Turning Compassion into Action

Goodall’s activism has not only raised awareness about animal rights but has sparked tangible change through the powerful work of the Roots & Shoots program, which encourages young people to get involved in social and environmental causes. With over 150,000 members in more than 100 countries, Roots & Shoots has become a global movement dedicated to fostering compassion, action, and responsibility toward animals, people, and the planet. Through these initiatives, Goodall has inspired a generation of activists who are driven by the belief that compassion can change the world.

A Legacy of Hope and Responsibility

Dr. Jane Goodall’s recognition as PETA’s Person of the Year is a celebration of a life well-lived in the service of others — both human and animal. Her legacy is not just one of scientific discovery but of profound empathy and a tireless commitment to creating a more compassionate world.

“Every choice we make can be an act of hope,” Goodall says, urging us all to consider the impact of our actions on the planet and the creatures that inhabit it. Whether through daily decisions, supporting animal rights initiatives, or advocating for sustainable practices, her life’s work reminds us that even the smallest act of kindness can ripple outward, making the world a better place for all living beings.

The Future of Compassion

Dr. Goodall’s legacy continues to inspire and empower millions around the world to live in harmony with the planet. As the 2025 PETA Person of the Year, her influence has never been stronger, and her message has never been more urgent: compassion is the key to building a future where all living beings are treated with respect and care.

As we look toward the future, Dr. Jane Goodall’s work serves as a constant reminder that every small step we take for animals, the environment, and each other is part of a larger, more hopeful movement. Through compassion and action, we can create a world where kindness reigns, and every animal, human, and ecosystem thrives.