Anglia Ruskin University Roots & Shoot Group

Anglia Ruskin’s R&S group was set up in 2005 by Esperanza, Juan and Ngaio and worked closely with the University of Cambridge group. I was attracted to Roots & Shoots in 2006 when I started university to do my degree in Animal behaviour, ecology and conservation. I was looking to increase my knowledge and experience in the conservation field as well as making friends and doing something I enjoyed. My first love in life has and always will be animals and conservation. Being part of Roots & Shoots has enabled me to be part of a global phenomenon and to do practical hands on conservation work. We as a group under took many fundraising projects including producing a recipe book in aid of the rangers protecting the Gorillas in the Congo, and selling soup to raise funds for the homeless in Cambridge. Practical hands on work carried out by the group included river Cam clean up days, drafting a response to the fisheries consultation to influence European fisheries policy, and an annual peace day march. Being part of this influential group of young people world wide has enabled me to meet new friends with similar interests and beliefs and given me the opportunity to meet Dr Jane on a couple of occasions. Hearing Dr Jane give her inspirational speeches has cemented my desire to work in the field of conservation and to make a difference in the world. - Jackie Dullaghan