Aileen Tennant

Aileen Tennant is director of Fota Wildlife Park in Ireland. She previously worked for nine years at Dublin Zoo, where she oversaw the expansion of its discovery and learning department, and helped deliver its first-ever conservation education master plans.

When she joined Fota Wildlife Park, Tennant said she aimed “to enable a more sustainable and biodiverse future, which will be driven forward by activity in the new education complex” (via the Irish Examiner).

“I look forward to working with the team to deliver positive change in the conservation of wildlife and to inspire visitors to join us in this mission at Fota Wildlife Park,” she added.

At Fota Wildlife Park, Tennant oversees all aspects of management, while focusing on conservation, education, research, animal welfare, and the guest experience.

One person who nominated Tennant said she's "a driving force behind initiatives that elevate public understanding of conservation, animal welfare, and the role of zoos in society".

They added, "Her vision is clear: a sector that not only cares for wildlife but also connects deeply with communities, learners, and future generations."