24 September 2026 | Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi
On 24 September 2026, Roots & Shoots UAE brought together students, educators, distinguished guests, and environmental advocates at Sorbonne University, Abu Dhabi for the Roots & Shoots UAE Annual Awards 2026, held under the theme “Her Legacy, Our Promise.”
This year's celebration carried a particularly special meaning. As our first annual awards ceremony following the passing of our beloved founder, Dr. Jane Goodall, the evening was not only an opportunity to recognise outstanding achievements but also a heartfelt tribute to her extraordinary life and enduring legacy.
Throughout her life, Dr. Jane Goodall believed in the power of young people to create meaningful change. Her message of hope, compassion and collective action continues to inspire growing communities of young changemakers across the UAE.
An Evening of Inspiration and Reflection
The ceremony opened with “Voices of Her Legacy,” a moving video tribute celebrating Dr. Jane Goodall's influence and the lasting impact of her work.
Tara Golshan, Executive Director of Roots & Shoots UAE, delivered a heartfelt address reflecting on her 20 years of working alongside Dr. Jane and the importance of carrying her vision forward.
We were honoured to welcome H.E. Geraldine McCafferty, British Ambassador to the UAE, whose presence made the occasion even more meaningful.
The evening also featured a special video message from Marjan Faraidooni, Chief of Education and Culture at Expo City Dubai, alongside an inspiring address by Sheena Khan, Head of Environmental Programmes at Terra, Expo City Dubai.
Professor Nathalie Martial-Braz, Chancellor of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, also addressed the audience, reinforcing the importance of education and youth engagement in building a more sustainable future.
Together, these contributions reflected the shared commitment of our community to empowering young people to become compassionate leaders and active changemakers.
Celebrating Our Top 10 Roots & Shoots Schools
One of the evening's highlights was the recognition of the Top 10 Roots & Shoots Schools of 2026.
These schools demonstrated exceptional dedication to creating positive change through student-led missions addressing challenges affecting people, animals and the environment.
From biodiversity conservation and environmental awareness campaigns to community outreach and sustainability initiatives, their achievements showcased the creativity, determination and leadership of young people across the UAE.
Each recognised school represented the true spirit of Jane’s ongoing legacy and Roots & Shoots: identifying challenges, taking action and inspiring others to make a difference.
The awards also celebrated the educators whose encouragement and guidance have helped students transform their ideas into meaningful action.
Recognising the Next Generation of Changemakers
The Young Changemaker Award celebrated students who have demonstrated exceptional initiative, leadership and commitment to making a positive impact.
This year, 15 inspiring young changemakers were nominated in recognition of their contributions to their schools and communities.
We were delighted to announce Muhammad Adeel Ahmad from Abu Dhabi Homeschoolers Association (ADHSA) as the Young Changemaker of 2026.
As one of our youngest changemakers, Muhammad's achievements are a powerful reminder that age is no barrier to creating positive change.
Every nominee represented the values that Dr. Jane Goodall championed throughout her life: compassion, courage, determination and the belief that individual actions matter.
Honouring Outstanding Contributions
Beyond our schools and young changemakers, the evening recognised four exceptional individuals whose contributions have made a meaningful difference to our environment and community.
The Special Recognition Awards, presented by H.E. Geraldine McCafferty, celebrated achievements across four categories:
- Educator Recognition: Anita Saul
- Community Impact Recognition: Mel Pubil
- Wildlife Conservation Recognition: Barbara Lang-Lenton
- Environmental Stewardship Recognition: Arabella Willing
Each recipient has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to inspiring others, protecting the natural world and contributing to a more compassionate and sustainable future.
Their dedication reflects the lasting influence of Dr. Jane Goodall's vision and the importance of collective action.
Keeping Her Legacy Alive
The evening concluded with a special video featuring Dr. Jane Goodall, reminding everyone of the responsibility we share in protecting our planet and the hope that lives within every generation.
Guests were also invited to enjoy a special art auction and a commemorative book celebrating Dr. Jane's remarkable life, which included personal reflections from the individuals whose lives she has impacted.
More than an awards ceremony, “Her Legacy, Our Promise” was a celebration of the people who continue to turn Dr. Jane's vision into action.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi for hosting this memorable occasion, to Expo City Dubai and Terra for their continued commitment to our programme and to all our distinguished guests, educators, students, and community members who joined us.
Her Legacy, Our Promise
Although Dr. Jane Goodall is no longer with us, her message continues to grow through every student who plants a tree, every school that protects wildlife, and every individual who chooses to make a difference.
At Roots & Shoots UAE, we remain committed to nurturing the next generation of changemakers and creating opportunities for young people to take meaningful action for people, animals and the environment.
Her legacy lives on through us. Her vision guides our actions. And her hope inspires our future.
