Jane Goodall continues to be an inspiration for those who fight to protect Earth and its inhabitants. What do you consider to be her most significant contributions?
There’s no one else in the world who has done more to shape humanity’s perspective on the planet, its wildlife, and our interconnectedness than Jane Goodall. Jane carries compassion and love wherever she travels, and her tireless efforts have left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of millions. Her legacy literally spans continents, generations, and cultures, and she has created a global movement of stewardship and compassion.
Jane’s legacy isn’t just about studying chimpanzees; it’s about breaking down barriers, fostering empathy, and fostering a deeper connection with nature. Her spirit lives on in every one of us who has been touched by her words. She inspires us all to make a positive difference in the world.
This project celebrates nature while embracing the unique perspective of the female gaze. Do you believe that the feminine perspective could contribute to the environmental cause? Can it foster a more equitable, inclusive, and interconnected approach to nature conservation, promoting a vision of harmony and equality?
When we talk about the environment, I would not attribute the current global paradigm solely to gender dynamics but I do think we need to work toward a future founded on collaboration rather than dominance, empathy rather than exploitation, and interconnectedness rather than division. By valuing and integrating a multitude of perspectives into environmental discourse and action, we can cultivate a vision that ultimately, is not only more effective but also more just, compassionate, and resilient.
In a world often dominated by men, you’ve chosen to initiate a collective project featuring female photographers united under a common cause. What challenges have you faced as a woman in your profession, and what advice would you offer to a young girl aspiring to work in this field?
I did not become a photographer right away. I began my career as an editor. I dreamed of being a photographer but the people hiring could only envision me at a desk job. I was a young woman and the folks out taking the shots were mainly men with a few remarkable exceptions. In each of the jobs I had in the beginning, I was pigeonholed and felt stuck for many years but I always had a dream. I was aware that there was this ladder to climb and the obvious path available to me as a young woman did not include being a photographer. I remember showing work to supervisors and editors, with the dream of one day being a photojournalist, but those dreams were quickly dismissed. Yet I knew I had to try because even if I failed, I would never regret trying. It was tough, especially in the beginning. I was told that I did not belong and endured physical threats and abuse but like every single human being, I am much stronger than it may have looked from the outside.