TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — The Tang Prize Foundation on Saturday premiered an environmental documentary in Taipei honoring the life and legacy of primatologist and conservationist Jane Goodall.
The film, titled “From Gombe to Global: The Life’s Calling of Jane Goodall,” took two years to produce and debuted at a packed theater attended by families and children. Goodall is a Tang Prize laureate widely recognized for her decades-long work in animal welfare and environmental conservation, per CNA.
Film director Kung Bang-hwa (龔邦華) said it draws on interviews conducted with Goodall in her later years, recalling her optimism and curiosity about life. Kung said Goodall often described death as “another adventure” and approached even difficult topics with positivity.
Kung urged audiences to carry forward Goodall’s message during turbulent times, noting her belief that consistent commitment to even small actions can lead to extraordinary change.
Kelly Kok (郭雪貞), executive director of the Jane Goodall Institute Taiwan, reflected on her years working with Goodall, describing her as playful, energetic, and unconcerned with age. Kok recalled Goodall frequently joking, “Don’t tell me to be careful anymore.”
Kok said Goodall continued traveling internationally to promote conservation well into her later years. During a visit to Taiwan last June, Goodall was suffering from a cold but insisted on delivering a speech and answering questions, cherishing the opportunity to engage with more than 2,000 attendees.
The following day, Kok accompanied Goodall to Japan, where organizers offered her a wheelchair and suggested she give her speech while seated. Goodall declined and quipped that if she were forced to do so, she would never return to Taiwan or Japan, Kok said.
In Taiwan, several institutions have adopted Goodall’s Roots & Shoots program. Chang Jung Christian University launched a campaign to improve the sewage system flowing into the Erren River, an effort that led Goodall to meet then-Tainan Mayor Lai Ching-te (賴清德). Kok said Goodall expressed hope of returning to see the river’s progress, reflecting her ability to inspire through encouragement rather than criticism.
Kuo Shan-shan (郭珊珊), vice chair of the Delta Electronics Foundation, said Goodall consistently uplifted environmental workers wherever she went. She said Goodall’s emphasis on small, everyday actions influenced Delta’s coral restoration efforts.
Kuo added that Goodall’s life and work have been particularly inspiring for women in environmental and scientific fields, especially when facing discrimination or unfounded criticism.
Tang Prize Foundation CEO Chern Jenn-chuan (陳振川) said Goodall visited Taiwan more than 20 times and made lasting contributions to environmental education. He said the foundation will continue promoting her spirit and ideals through education and outreach.
