From a young age, I’ve felt a profound connection and love for animals and wild places. I think my dear mother instilled this love in me, and vividly recall the first “real” book that she read to me, Jane Goodall's "In the Shadow of Man". The book gives an account of Jane’s life among the wild chimpanzees of Gombe is one of the most enthralling stories of animal behavior ever written.
She delved into the complicated social hierarchy of these primates and observed many extraordinary behaviors, which forever changed our understanding of the profound connection between humans and chimpanzees. As I listened my heart became forever intertwined with these fascinating creatures and the allure of untamed places. I wanted to be Jane Goodall and I dreamed of journeying to the jungles of East Africa and immersing myself in their world, studying and protecting them in their natural habitat.
As the years passed, my passion for wildlife and wild places never waned. I knew I wanted to protect nature and its inhabitants, and I was determined to pursue a path that aligned with this desire. I embarked on a journey of education, choosing to study zoology and nature conservation. My academic pursuits exposed me to the intricacies of ecological systems and the importance of preserving biodiversity. As I delved deeper into conservation biology, the urgency to protect wild places and creatures became evident. Witnessing the challenges faced by wildlife due to habitat loss, climate change, and human encroachment only strengthened my resolve to be a champion for their survival.
Life has a way of taking us on unexpected journeys, however, and my dream working with wildlife did not materialize at the time, due to a number of reasons. As the search for a job in that field proved challenging, I found myself embarking on a different path - that of a travel agent. While it wasn't the career I had initially envisioned, it opened doors to another love that my parents had instilled in me - the love of travel.
As a travel agent, I have had the privilege of curating unforgettable experiences for others, helping them explore the world and connect with its beauty. My work allows me to share my enthusiasm for different cultures, landscapes, and wildlife with travelers, inspiring them to embark on their own adventures. Witnessing their joy and awe as they encounter new environments and wildlife brings a sense of fulfillment, knowing that I play a part in perhaps instilling my love and compassion in others.
Despite the change in my professional path, my love for wildlife and wild places never diminished. It is a passion deeply rooted in my soul, and one that I carry with me every day. My desire to give back and make a difference for wildlife and wild places has never wavered. Even as a travel agent, I am committed to promoting responsible and sustainable travel practices that support conservation initiatives and protect the natural world.
While I may not be on the frontlines of wildlife conservation, I have come to realize that there are many ways to contribute to the cause I hold dear. By encouraging ecotourism, raising awareness about conservation projects, and supporting organizations dedicated to protecting wildlife and habitats, I can make a difference from behind the scenes.
After all, the desire to protect the wonders of this planet is not limited to a single profession, but rather, it is a lifelong calling that transcends boundaries and inspires a deep-rooted sense of responsibility for the well-being of our world. With every action, I hope to inspire others to cherish and protect the treasures of our planet, ensuring that future generations may also revel in its wonders.