Feminine Icon of Our Age

An inadvertent icon of grace and heroism, Jane Goodall, the primatologist turned environmental campaigner blazes on the inspirational trail around the world. Goodall, the 71 year old Ambassador of Peace, has the kind of beauty you can't buy. She radiates the beauty that comes from being who you are and living it. Her message is simple: "Yes, we are trying to change the world. Yes, we are changing the world. But we can't anything alone. . . Every single individual makes a difference every day. When we get a team and we can hold hands, we can change the world together."

In 1986, it became clear to Goodall that she would have to leave her research behind and address the planet's bigger environmental and social issues. "I was impelled. It wasn't a choice. It was no great nobility. I think I am doing what I was sent to do. I wouldn't choose to live this way. Who would? I don't enjoy it. " Jane travels tirelessly, touring over 300 days a year and not staying in one place for longer than three weeks.

The Jane Goodall Institute, founded in 1977, now has a global staff of more than 250 to carry out its conservation and research work. Roots & Shoots is her main focus these days, comprising more than 6,000 groups in at least 87 countries.

Goodall has evolved from being one of the world's most recognized animal researchers to becoming a full time activist who has made it her life's work and driving ambition to protect and nurture every living thing on this planet.

"When I die, I want to be able to look at my three grandchildren, whom I care about very deply, and tell them that I really tried my best."

Excerpt from Vogue Magazine interview