The Story The Story presents: Planet Hope - protecting snow leopards
Sep 27, 2025
Rinzin Phunjok Lama, a conservation biologist from Humla, Nepal, is on a mission to protect snow leopards and their mountain ecosystems through community-led efforts. He shares captivating stories of his childhood and his first encounter with a snow leopard that ignited his passion for conservation. Rinzin highlights the importance of blending local knowledge with scientific training and discusses the impacts of climate change on his community. With a focus on engaging youth and promoting sustainable practices, he offers hope through collective responsibility and grassroots action.
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Snow Leopard As A Deity In Local Folklore
- Childhood folklore in Humla portrayed the snow leopard as a deity whose anger could punish people and livestock.
- Those stories shaped local respect and fear toward wildlife and influenced Rinzin's early views.
First Encounter Sparked A Career
- Rinzin saw a snow leopard for the first time while guiding tourists at age 16 and was frightened.
- That encounter sparked his decision to pursue conservation professionally.
Local Knowledge Complements Science
- Local practical knowledge complements academic science and improves conservation outcomes.
- Rinzin emphasizes listening to communities to make research relevant and effective.