ⓒ  Secretariat of the Convention on Wetlands

On 8 March 2025, the Secretariat of the Convention on Wetlands proudly presented the remarkable women to be featured in the 2025 list of “Women Changemakers in the World of Wetlands,” including Ms. Jennifer George, Chief Executive of the East Asian–Australasian (EAAFP) Secretariat. This prestigious recognition honors her exceptional contributions to wetland conservation and her steadfast commitment to the mission of the Convention on Wetlands, which focuses on the preservation and sustainable use of these vital ecosystems. 

Ms. Jennifer Geroge’s outstanding contributions include her role as an EAAFP consultant, where she played a key part in developing the recently adopted Decision Papers of the Meeting of Partners (MOP11), namely the “Guidelines for EAAFP National and Site Partnerships” and the “Guidelines for the EAAFP Sister Site Program.” Many of you may have engaged with her during the consultation period for these guidelines or met her at MOP11 in Brisbane, Australia in 2023. Through her expertise and close collaboration with the EAAFP Secretariat and Partners, she has significantly contributed to advancing the development of these important partnerships. Additionally, she remains an active member of the EAAFP Partner organisation, the Pukorokoro Miranda Naturalists Trust, where her dedication and passion for the conservation of migratory waterbirds continue to grow. 

ⓒ  EAAFP

“To be recognised for my work in International Collaboration for Wetlands through the Women Changemakers in Wetlands campaign is a wonderful honour. I am deeply grateful to the women who have inspired and supported me with their wisdom and encouragement both past and present, and on this International Women’s Day 2025, I also honour them. The Convention on Wetlands ongoing commitment to highlighting the key role women play across the globe in safeguarding wetlands makes a difference.  Let’s unite in building global networks, to driving lasting change for our wetlands, and to empowering the next generation of leaders. Together, we can break barriers and create a more inclusive, sustainable future for all,” said Jennifer.  

The importance of gender equality in environmental conservation has long been a priority for the Convention on Wetlands. In 2018, the Contracting Parties adopted Resolution XIII.18 on Gender and Wetlands, which recognises the vital role women play in managing, safeguarding, and providing for wetland resources. Women, especially those from marginalised and indigenous communities, have been at the forefront of wetland conservation, offering invaluable leadership and expertise in the face of climate change, pollution, and habitat loss. 

In line with the Convention’s commitment to celebrating women’s contributions to global conservation, the Secretariat launched the inaugural “Women Changemakers in the World of Wetlands” in 2024. This initiative recognised women, including youth and indigenous leaders, for their tireless work in the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of wetlands. 

Through honouring trailblazers like Ms. George, the Convention on Wetlands aims to inspire further action to bridge the gender gap in conservation and raise awareness about the crucial role women play in safeguarding our planet’s wetlands. This recognition not only celebrates the exceptional achievements of these women, but also advances gender equality in wetland conservation on a global scale. 

ⓒ  Secretariat of the Convention on Wetlands

The 2025 Women Changemakers in the World of Wetlands have been recognised by the Secretariat of the Convention on Wetlands for their outstanding achievements in wetland conservation. Included in this list are: Franziska Trautmann (Glass Half Full), Adenike Oladosu (I Lead Climate Action Initiative), Laura Gonzalez (Marea Verde), Rachel D’Silva (C.L. Environmental), Rosa Jalja Gil (Women United in Defense of Mangroves), Teresa Vincente (University of Murcia), Libuše Vlasáková (Ministry of Environment, Czech Repulic), Celeste Saulo (World Meteorological Organization), Julie Mulonga (Eastern Africa at Wetlands International), and Dr. Jayshree Vencatesan (Earth Trust). 

Let us look forward to a future where women’s voices are heard, valued, and empowered to accelerate the protection of wetlands for generations to come. 

Original article: https://www.ramsar.org/our-work/activities/gender-wetlands/2025-women-changemakers-world-wetlands 

Learn more about the Women Changemakers: https://www.ramsar.org/our-work/activities/gender-wetlands/meet-inaugural-cohort-women-changemakers-world-wetlands 

Q&A with Jennifer George: https://www.ramsar.org/person/jennifer-george-new-zealand