Exploring Jane Goodall’s world through young eyes

Two young kids have an unforgettable experience at the ‘Celebrating Jane’ Exhibition at Mumbai’s Museum of Solutions

Nasrin Modak Siddiqi

Stepping into the Museum of Solutions in Mumbai, it was clear that the “Celebrating Jane” exhibition was no ordinary display. For two young visitors, Ashaz, 11, and Faria, 9, this journey into Dr. Jane Goodall’s life promised to be an adventure like no other.

As they walked through the museum doors, the excitement was palpable. Both kids had heard of Jane Goodall, the woman who lived among chimpanzees in the forests of Africa. But what they were about to experience would bring her story to life in ways they couldn’t have imagined.

Ninety-year-old Jane Goodall, a British primatologist and anthropologist, is celebrated for her pioneering research on chimpanzees. Her work at Tanzania’s Gombe Stream National Park revolutionised our understanding of primate behaviour and highlighted the deep connections between humans and animals. Beyond her scientific achievements, Goodall is a fervent advocate for conservation and animal welfare, driving global initiatives to protect wildlife and promote sustainable living. Her unwavering commitment to the environment inspires generations to value and safeguard the natural world.

Entering Jane’s World

The first stop was a recreation of Dr. Jane’s tent from Gombe, Tanzania. The tent, a simple structure that served as her home for years, was surrounded by the sounds of the African forest—birds chirping, leaves rustling, and the occasional distant call of a chimpanzee. Faria, a budding wildlife enthusiast, was particularly intrigued. She knelt to peer inside, imagining what it must have been like to live so closely with nature, far from the comforts of home. The tech-savvy kids, who couldn’t live a day without their screens, were amazed that someone could live in such basic conditions while doing such important work.

Inside the tent, they found some of Jane’s personal belongings—a notebook filled with observations, a worn-out backpack, and a pair of binoculars. Faria picked up the binoculars, pretending to be Jane, scanning the horizon for signs of chimpanzee activity. Ashaz was fascinated by the simplicity of Jane’s setup—the typewriter was his favourite item. The immersive setup made the kids feel like they were stepping into Jane’s shoes, experiencing the wild through her eyes.

Discovering the Chimps

The next section of the exhibition was dedicated to the chimpanzees of Gombe. Life-sized models of chimps, positioned in natural poses, greeted the children. Faria was immediately drawn to them, noting the expressive faces and wondering about each chimp’s personality. A touchscreen display allowed them to learn about the chimps Jane had studied—Fifi, David Greybeard, and others. Both kids were particularly taken with David Greybeard, the first chimp to trust Jane. The idea that a wild animal could build a bond with a human fascinated them.

An interactive game challenged them to spot the differences between humans and chimps, highlighting the similarities in their behaviour and social structures. As they played, both Ashaz and Faria began to understand why Jane had dedicated her life to these animals—they weren’t so different from us after all.

Roots & Shoots: A Legacy of Change

One of the most engaging parts of the exhibition was the introduction to Jane Goodall’s Roots & Shoots programme. The children learned how Jane’s work with chimps had evolved into a global movement aimed at empowering young people to make a difference in their communities. This section featured stories of children worldwide who had taken up environmental causes, from planting trees to cleaning up beaches.

Inspired, Ashaz and Faria spent time at the “Oceans Are Us” display, part of the Roots & Shoots initiative. They watched videos of young activists working to protect marine life, and Ashaz, who loved the ocean, began asking questions about how he could help. The exhibit encouraged them to think about their own contributions to the planet and left them feeling that, even at their age, they could make a meaningful impact.

A Journey of Discovery

As they moved through the exhibition, the kids were captivated by the mix of storytelling and hands-on activities. They built a simple shelter out of sticks and leaves, just as Jane might have done in Gombe, and tried their hand at making notes in a field journal. The exhibition didn’t just tell them about Jane’s work—it allowed them to experience it tangibly.

In the “Life in Gombe” section, they were introduced to Jane’s challenges in the field—extreme weather, isolation, and the constant threat of illness. A video display showed clips of Jane’s early days in Gombe, and Jane’s determination struck Faria. She turned to her mother, who accompanied them, and said, “I want to be brave like Jane.” Ashaz was impressed that Jane had no formal training when she began her research. “She just did it because she loved the chimps,” he remarked, clearly moved by her passion.

Leaving Inspired

As they exited the exhibition, both children were buzzing with excitement. The experience had left a deep impression on them. Faria, who had always loved animals, felt even more connected to conservation. She started talking about ways she could get involved with wildlife protection, perhaps even joining a Roots & Shoots group.

Ashaz, who had been less familiar with Jane Goodall’s work before the visit, was now brimming with questions about chimps, conservation, and how he could contribute to protecting the planet. For both kids, the “Celebrating Jane” exhibition wasn’t just an educational outing—it was an experience that opened their eyes to the world of conservation and the difference one person can make. As they left the Museum of Solutions, they carried with them not just the memory of a fun day out but a newfound sense of responsibility and a desire to positively impact the world around them.

This immersive journey through Jane Goodall’s life and legacy transformed a children’s museum visit into a powerful experience of learning and inspiration. For Ashaz and Faria, it was a day that would stay with them long after they left the exhibition.

Tanvi Jindal Shete, Founder of the Museum of Solutions, shared, “This exhibition aligns with our mission to spark curiosity and foster a love for nature in young minds. By showcasing Dr. Jane Goodall’s journey, we aim to inspire kids and families to become advocates for wildlife conservation. Through interactive activities, children will learn about her work and feel empowered to take steps toward a sustainable future. This collaboration with the Jane Goodall Institute India offers an enriching experience that celebrates a true icon and inspires the next generation of changemakers.” Katie Bagli, Education Director at Jane Goodall Institute India, said, “We’re excited to partner with the Museum of Solutions to bring this exhibit to life. Dr. Jane Goodall’s dedication to conservation has inspired millions globally. This exhibition honours her legacy and aims to instil a passion for wildlife preservation in young minds, empowering visitors to take steps toward a sustainable future.”

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