Welcome back to our Zookeeper Diaries series, where we share the incredible stories of famous zookeepers from around the world. Today, we’re featuring Jenny Gray, the accomplished CEO of Zoos Victoria in Australia, and a passionate advocate for animal welfare and conservation.
An Early Love for Nature
Jenny Gray was born in South Africa, where her love for wildlife and the outdoors began to take root. She spent her formative years exploring the wild landscapes of her home country, nurturing her passion for animals and the natural world.
A Stellar Education
Jenny pursued her love for animals by studying zoology at the University of the Witwatersrand in Johannesburg. She later earned a Master’s degree in Animal Welfare Science, Ethics, and Law from the University of Edinburgh in Scotland, which equipped her with the knowledge and skills to make a meaningful impact on animal welfare.
A Career Dedicated to Animal Welfare
Throughout her career, Jenny has been committed to improving the lives of animals both in captivity and the wild. She has held various positions in zoo management, including at Taronga Zoo in Sydney and Johannesburg Zoo, before becoming the CEO of Zoos Victoria in 2008.
Leading Zoos Victoria to New Heights
Under Jenny’s leadership, Zoos Victoria has become a global leader in animal welfare and conservation. She has spearheaded numerous initiatives, such as the development of a comprehensive Animal Welfare Charter and the “Fighting Extinction” commitment, which aims to prevent the extinction of 20 native Australian species by 2020.
Influential Author and Speaker
Jenny Gray is a respected voice in the world of animal welfare and conservation. She has authored the book “Zoo Ethics: The Challenges of Compassionate Conservation,” which explores the ethical considerations of modern zoos. Jenny is also a sought-after speaker, sharing her insights and experiences at conferences and events around the world.
A Commitment to Conservation
Jenny’s dedication to conservation extends beyond her work at Zoos Victoria. She serves on several international conservation boards, including the Species Survival Commission of the International Union for Conservation of Nature and the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums.
Jenny Gray’s dedication to animal welfare and conservation has left an indelible mark on the world of zoos and wildlife preservation. Her unwavering commitment to ethical practices and her tireless efforts to save endangered species make her an inspiring figure for future generations of zookeepers and conservationists.
Stay tuned for the next installment of our Zookeeper Diaries series, where we’ll continue to share the incredible stories of the world’s most renowned zookeepers and conservationists.
Until next time,
Alex