A Legacy of Hope: Celebrating the Life and Work of Dr. Jane Goodall

TORONTO, ON – November 20, 2025 – The Jane Goodall Institute of Canada is preparing to host ‘Remembering Dr. Jane Goodall: A Celebration of a Life of Hope’ this Saturday, November 22nd at Convocation Hall in Toronto. The event, taking place just weeks after Dr. Goodall's passing on October 1st, aims to honor the extraordinary life and lasting legacy of the world-renowned primatologist, conservationist, and humanitarian.

From Gombe to Global Influence

Dr. Goodall’s groundbreaking research at Gombe Stream National Park in Tanzania, beginning in 1960, revolutionized our understanding of chimpanzees and challenged long-held assumptions about the divide between humans and the animal kingdom. Her meticulous observations revealed that chimpanzees use tools, engage in complex social behaviors, and exhibit emotions previously thought to be uniquely human. This work fundamentally altered the field of primatology and earned her a PhD from Cambridge University – a remarkable achievement considering she lacked a traditional university education at the outset of her research.

“Her approach wasn't simply scientific; it was deeply empathetic,” says one conservationist, speaking anonymously. “She didn’t just observe the chimpanzees; she built relationships with them, giving them names and acknowledging their individual personalities. That level of connection was unprecedented and deeply influenced how we view our relationship with the natural world.”

Dr. Goodall’s impact extends far beyond scientific discovery. Recognizing the threats facing chimpanzees and their habitats, she founded the Jane Goodall Institute (JGI) in 1977, an organization dedicated to wildlife research, conservation, and community-centered programs. The Institute's work now spans over 60 countries, focusing on protecting chimpanzee habitats, empowering local communities, and promoting sustainable livelihoods.

JGI Canada: Carrying the Torch

JGI Canada plays a crucial role in advancing Dr. Goodall’s vision within a Canadian context. The organization’s programs are designed to address both global and local conservation challenges, with a strong emphasis on youth empowerment and Indigenous leadership. The Roots & Shoots program, for example, engages over 14,000 young people across Canada, providing them with the tools and resources to tackle environmental and social issues in their communities.

“We’re not just teaching young people about conservation; we’re empowering them to become conservationists,” explains a program coordinator with JGI Canada. “We believe that every young person has the potential to make a positive impact, and we provide them with the opportunities to do so.”

JGI Canada also actively supports community-led conservation initiatives in Africa, focusing on protecting critical chimpanzee habitats and promoting sustainable livelihoods for local communities. This includes projects focused on climate change adaptation, sustainable agriculture, and community-based tourism. In addition to its international work, JGI Canada also partners with Indigenous communities in Canada to promote traditional ecological knowledge and support Indigenous-led conservation initiatives.

A Celebration of Hope and Remembrance

This Saturday’s memorial event in Toronto is expected to draw a large crowd of admirers, colleagues, and friends of Dr. Goodall. The event will feature a special musical performance by Jann Arden, a long-time supporter of conservation efforts, and remarks from broadcaster George Stroumboulopoulos, who shared a close relationship with Dr. Goodall and hosted her final Toronto event earlier this fall.

“Dr. Goodall was an extraordinary woman, a true inspiration,” says Stroumboulopoulos in a recent statement. “She had a remarkable ability to connect with people of all ages and backgrounds, and her message of hope and compassion resonated deeply with everyone she met.”

The event is not simply a somber remembrance, but a celebration of a life dedicated to making the world a better place. It’s a reminder that even in the face of daunting challenges, hope and positive change are always possible. A national livestream will be available for those unable to attend in person, ensuring that Dr. Goodall’s legacy can be shared with a wider audience. As the world mourns the loss of a true icon, this event provides an opportunity to reflect on her extraordinary life and renew our commitment to protecting the planet for future generations.

“She always said that every individual matters, and that every individual has a role to play in creating a more sustainable future,” says a colleague of Dr. Goodall. “That message is more important now than ever before.”