Callie VEELENTURF

Visionary marine conservation biologist Callie Veelenturf goes where many scientists are not willing to go: the intersection of field science and national and international policy. Callie inspires and influences high-impact conservation measures using collaborative scientific research initiatives, with a special focus on connecting indigenous and marginalized communities with government agencies to propose and achieve paramount environmental protections and advancements in the global recognition of the intrinsic Rights of Nature. Callie founded and leads the non-profit research and conservation organization, The Leatherback Project, where she works for the conservation of leatherbacks and other threatened marine species and their habitat. Through The Leatherback Project she has trained thousands of Panamanian Army and Navy soldiers in the recognition of illegal sea turtle products; identified new to science sea turtle nesting and foraging sites; and started the first long-term sea turtle monitoring program in Armila, together with the Guna People. She has spearheaded groundbreaking conservation proposals and laws in Panama including a new National Wildlife Refuge proposal; Law 287 recognizing the Rights of Nature; and Article 29 of Law 371 that recognizes sea turtles as legal entities with specific rights. Callie aspires to lead and empower other public citizens to use their voices to advocate for the intrinsic Rights of Nature. She is a 2024 Future For Nature Awardee, and since 2023, her work has been featured on the front page of the Washington Post, on CBS News, and Smithsonian Magazine.