Martina Panisi

Throughout my explorations, I’ve come to understand that each new environment harbors unique living beings and intricate relationships with the people inhabiting its surroundings. My mission is to facilitate connections between threatened species and people, often starting with the question, “What does this species mean to you?” In central Africa, I concentrated on conserving the native forests of São Tomé and Príncipe by narrating the tale of threatened giant snails. In the Arabian Peninsula, I collaborate with an international team of biologists to compile the first inventory of fauna in an underappreciated desert region. In Tanzania, I join forces with a team of National Geographic explorers to empower teachers to advocate for local biodiversity protection.

Biodiversity loss is a global challenge, and my future goal is to build bridges across people and places, sharing stories worldwide and fostering collaboration for a united front against this shared threat.