In a moment of pride for India, renowned environmentalist and wildlife filmmaker Mike Pandey was conferred with the prestigious 2024 Jackson Wild Legacy Award. This global accolade, considered one of the highest honors in wildlife and environmental filmmaking, recognizes Pandey’s exceptional contributions to wildlife conservation over his 45-year career. The award was presented during a grand event held at the AFI Silver Theatre in Silver Spring, Maryland, amidst a gathering of global experts and conservationists.

In his heartfelt acceptance speech, Pandey expressed deep gratitude, saying, “Receiving the Jackson Wild Legacy Award is a deeply profound honor, not just for me but for the voiceless we share the planet with; every species these films have sought to protect. Storytelling is a powerful tool, and I hope to continue raising awareness and inspiring action to safeguard our planet’s fragile ecosystems.”

Pandey’s films have been a powerful catalyst for change, driving legislative actions and inspiring environmental protection. His work has played a significant role in the protection of various endangered species such as whale sharks, vultures, horseshoe crabs, and elephants. The Jackson Wild Legacy Award celebrates individuals whose storytelling has driven real-world change, and Pandey joins the ranks of esteemed past awardees such as Sir David Attenborough, Dr. Jane Goodall, and Dr. Sylvia Earle.

Geoff Daniels, Executive Director of Jackson Wild, praised Pandey’s commitment: “Mike Pandey’s incredible passion for wildlife conservation has left an indelible mark not just in India but across the globe. His films have driven critical legislative changes and inspired millions, setting a benchmark for how storytelling can catalyze real-world impact.”

Born in Kenya and deeply influenced by his early experiences with wildlife, Pandey moved to India, where he became a leading figure in environmental conservation. His acclaimed documentaries, including the award-winning “Shores of Silence: Whale Sharks in India” (2000), have brought urgent environmental issues to the forefront, particularly focusing on the delicate ecosystems of India and the surrounding regions. His work has reached far beyond the screen, resulting in tangible conservation efforts that have had a lasting impact on biodiversity in India.

Through his television program, “Earth Matters”, Pandey has further amplified his message, reaching an audience of over 800 million people weekly in multiple languages. As Chairman of the Earthwatch Institute India and the Earth Matters Foundation, he continues to lead efforts in environmental education and activism. Pandey has been honored with multiple accolades, including the Rajiv Gandhi Wildlife Conservation Award and the Hero of the Environment title by Time Magazine, USA.

The 2024 Jackson Wild Legacy Award stands as a testament to Mike Pandey’s lifelong dedication to protecting the environment, ensuring that the stories of nature continue to inspire and bring about meaningful change in society. His work has not only uplifted India’s biodiversity efforts but also driven global conversations about conservation and sustainability.