At Focused Conservation, we often reflect on how a passion for wildlife protection is born. For many of us, that spark was ignited in childhood—whether through time spent outdoors, a visit to a local zoo or national park, or hearing the story of someone working on the frontlines of conservation. Our team shares this deep passion and understands the critical importance of inspiring the next generation to carry that torch forward.
That’s why we were thrilled to connect with a group of bright and motivated fifth-grade students from Todd Elementary School in Briarcliff Manor, New York. As part of their capstone project—a culminating academic experience that blends research with real-world engagement—students in Melissa Magliulo’s class were encouraged to explore topics they feel passionate about. This inquiry-based project challenges them to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world problems, seek expert input, and present their findings through both a formal presentation and a related service component.
Driven by a clear passion for wildlife, one group of students chose to research topics including poaching, wildlife trafficking, and the plight of gorillas in the Congo. Their journey brought them to Focused Conservation, where they reached out hoping to learn more about the global wildlife crisis and what’s being done to address it.
Senior Advisor Tim Santel, a former Special Agent with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, didn’t hesitate to accept the invitation. Last week, Tim joined the class for an interactive session, sharing stories from his career and providing insight into the illegal wildlife trade, its devastating impacts, and how Focused Conservation is working globally to disrupt criminal networks and protect vulnerable species such as the great apes.
The students came well-prepared, asking thoughtful, in-depth questions that revealed not only their knowledge but also a genuine passion for the subject. “I’ve always enjoyed speaking with students, especially younger ones who are so passionate about animals—just like I was at their age,” Tim said. “These kids are the next generation to take the torch from those of us nearing the end of our careers. I truly believe in the spirit of paying it forward, and who knows—maybe one day one of these kids will be the next Jane Goodall, Dian Fossey, or Sir David Attenborough.”
Inspired and informed, the students are now completing their final presentations—armed with a deeper understanding of global wildlife issues and a clearer sense of how they can be part of the solution. For Focused Conservation, it’s another reminder that change begins with awareness—and that even the youngest voices can have a powerful impact on the future of wildlife.
