David Attenborough

1926 -
Wisdom and Appreciation

“Surely it is our responsibility to do everything within our power to create a planet that provides a home not just for us, but for all life on Earth.”

Who Am I?

Sir David Attenborough is a world-famous writer, broadcaster and natural historian. However, Sir David’s application was rejected from the first job he ever applied for at the BBC – the position of a radio talk producer. But that didn’t stop him from pursuing his passion and desire to entertain, inform and educate people about the planet we all share. And for over 50 years, Sir David has been making educational shows that do just that!

What Am I Known for?

Sir David went on to become controller of BBC2 and helped to launch many famous dramatic productions. When he left the BBC in 1972, he wrote and produced many of his award-winning shows on anthropology, natural history and the environment.

He is a passionate environmental campaigner, and many of his later documentaries have addressed issues such as climate change, population growth and endangered species. Sir David was knighted in 1985, and he has also won numerous awards for his work, including dozens of honorary degrees from universities. At least 20 plants and animals have been named in his honour.

How About You?

When you are passionate about an issue, can you use good judgment to balance your feelings so that you can continue making sensible choices for yourself and those around you?

Do you take time to appreciate the world around you? Make time this week to stop and think about all the good things that are in your life.

Other Amazing People (you can find them on the website)

Rachel Carson is one of our amazing people whose story can be explored on the site. She was one of the first people to warn the world about the use of pesticides and their damage to the environment.

Photo: Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade website – www.dfat.gov.au, CC BY 3.0 AU