#LifeLessons - Jennifer Croes

NAME: Jennifer Croes

INSTAGRAM HANDLE: @JenniferCroes

JOB TITLE: Conservation Scientist 

I am a conservation scientist, adventurer, wildlife warrior, avid nature lover, public speaker, eco-tourism host and breast cancer survivor. I took a leap of faith in 2005 to follow my passion for conservation, where I had an epiphany working in the Amazon Basin in Bolivia, rehabilitating wildlife, rescued from the illegal wildlife trade and pet markets. 

I specialise in wildlife crime, and combating the illegal wildlife trade of all creatures, great and small, furry or scaly, or that run, swim or fly.  I am particularly interested in looking at the link between human behaviour and our relationship to nature.  I love being in the outdoors, being at the beach, hiking in the mountains, camping, BBQs in the desert or playing padel tennis. No matter where I am or what I am doing, whether it is presenting on stage, rescuing wildlife, or simply writing this article…my red or hot pink lipstick is my brand. Rain, hail or shine…bring on the lippy 😊

# LIFELESSON – 1: Connect with Nature

I can’t stress enough how important it is to find a connection with nature for our physical and mental health & wellbeing. It became evident during Covid-19 lockdown, how much we all craved being outside and to be surrounded by nature.  The need for nature is becoming more real than ever as we are faced with some of the most pressing global challenges ever, climate change.  Nature doesn’t need us, it is resilient enough to bounce back after all the havoc we have put upon it, but we definitely need nature for our own survival.  So, get out there, explore and appreciate nature, in all its beauty. 

# LIFELESSON – 2: Gratitude

Gratitude, the art of being thankful, or grateful, is one of the most significant life learnings I have experienced. Whilst I was battling a sudden diagnosis of breast cancer in 2021, I realised how I had forgotten to be thankful and appreciate the smallest things in life.  We can get so lost in this fast-paced world of technology, material things and expectations, that we take for granted what is most important; health, food, water, family, friends, relationships, a home.  I am forever grateful to my family, friends, work, medical team for looking after me during the toughest challenge in my life.  They say cancer changes you forever, and for me it did, in a very positive way. I realised what was important and what to let go.  Being grateful, and being given a second chance in life, has changed my perspective of how I see the world and the impact I want make. 

# LIFELESSON – 3: Be Authentic 

I have reinvented myself a few times, and as I prepare to launch Jennifer Croes, V 5.0 in a few weeks’ time, one thing that has remained consistent is being authentic.  Over the past 49.8 years, I have really discovered who I am, my passions, my drivers, and how I see my place in the world.  Authenticity is word that is often bandied around, but the simple definition is living your life according to your own values and goals.  

It is important to stay true to who you are, no matter what society expects of us, to always follow your heart and values, ethical or moral, and to believe in yourself.

Authenticity is not just a word; it is a way you live your life. Never forget who you are or where you came from.  This is what has shaped the person you have become and allows you to be the best that YOU can be.