Jane Goodall (1934–2025) — A Life That Changed the World

“A girl who dreamed of living with animals in Africa grew up to show humanity the hearts of chimpanzees.”

For nearly a century, Jane Goodall’s life was a beacon of compassion, curiosity, and determination. On October 1, 2025, at the age of 91, she passed away while traveling the world, teaching, and continuing to fight for the future of our planet. But even in her passing, Jane’s legacy lives on — woven into the fabric of the world she tirelessly worked to protect.

 In 1960, with no formal scientific training, Jane ventured into the heart of Africa. She sat among chimpanzees, not as an observer, but as a compassionate witness to their lives. She gave them names, and in doing so, revealed to the world that these remarkable creatures use tools, grieve, and form deep friendships. Her groundbreaking discoveries forever altered the field of science, forever changing how humanity views the animal kingdom.

 Jane’s journey was not just one of exploration but of empowerment. She founded the Jane Goodall Institute and Roots & Shoots — initiatives that empowered millions of young people to take action, protect animals, and fight for a healthier planet. She never slowed down, never stopped moving, never stopped planting seeds of hope, even into her nineties.

Her greatest legacy? It’s not just in the animals she saved or the forests she protected. It’s in every child who now sees animals as thinking, feeling beings — every child who knows the forest must be preserved. Every effort made by young people who, like Jane, refuse to stand by while the world’s beauty is lost.

Rest in peace, Dr. Goodall. The forest remembers. The children carry your message. And the world is forever changed because of you.