Isla Richards
Isla's journey spans ocean conservation and safari park roles, contributing to education, research, and breeding efforts for endangered species. Her commitment to plastic-free living and clean-up initiatives highlights personal action for the environment. Inspired by family ties and a fascination with animal behavior, she aims to enhance marine conservation through the Darwin Leader program.
Isla's impactful journey in conservation has been driven by her roles at the Ocean Conservation Trust and West Midlands Safari Park. Focused on education, research, and conservation, Isla maintained display tank standards to raise public awareness about ocean conservation. She led research projects and provided training to interns, fostering future conservationists. Working at the Safari Park, Isla aimed to build connections between urban communities and nature, advocating for wildlife preservation.
START DATE: | 20th September | LOCATION: | Fernando de Noronha | AREA OF STUDY: | The octopuses of Noronha, behaviour, adaptation and protection |
END DATE: | 1st October | Representing: | England | SPONSOR: | Ocean Conservation Trust |
START DATE: | 20th September |
END DATE: | 1st October |
LOCATION: | Fernando de Noronha |
END POINT: | England |
AREA OF STUDY: | The octopuses of Noronha, behaviour, adaptation and protection |
SPONSOR: | Ocean Conservation Trust |

Isla’s active participation in breeding programs for endangered species, plastic-free living, and dive clean-up initiatives underscores her commitment to tangible environmental change. Fascination with animal behavior, nurtured by family influences, fueled her passion for animal welfare and marine conservation. She aspires to expand her impact through the Darwin Leader program, connecting with like-minded individuals and advancing marine conservation efforts.
Isla’s expertise in animal behavior, welfare, and enrichment programs positions her to contribute significantly to cephalopod research. Her drive for ethical treatment and compassion for animals, combined with the program’s leadership focus, aligns perfectly with her vision for lasting positive change in marine conservation. As a Darwin Leader, Isla envisions a dedicated career in marine conservation and animal welfare, making a transformative impact on global conservation efforts.
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