2025, that's a wrap!
As 2025 draws to a close, I can't help but feel like I could have done more. I should have done more. But then, when I think about everything that I have done throughout the year; touring another show, visiting a bunch of classes, talking to countless people about the importance of insects and the changes that are going on around them and what they could do differently... I realise I've actually done quite a lot.
It makes me really grateful that I have so many people supporting me, encouraging me and believing in me to help me get out and do these things. To forge these new paths for environmental education and insect conservation.
So a massive thank you to everyone who's beenbehind Gone Buggo, especially Dr. David Wilson and Dr Wen-sung Chung, Evol Dan, Stephen Hanlon (whose awesome song; This is us, unfortunately got shut down by tiktok/ lemon8) and everyone else who has contributed to this stuff. Most of all a massive thanks to my wife, Sam, for her endless support and maybe thanks to our daughter for not wrecking every lego build completely before they were photographed.
One of the key elements behind the successes in insect conservation and environmental education has been the strong network supporting these efforts. Personally, I've found that building connections with experts, educators, musicians, and fellow advocates has enriched my projects and broadened the reach of our shared message. This network behind these efforts not only provides encouragement but also inspires creative approaches to raising awareness — from engaging LEGO dioramas to music collaborations. For example, the song "This is Us" by Stephen Hanlon, despite setbacks on some platforms, became an emblematic piece in bringing attention to our cause. Moreover, working alongside skilled scientists like Dr. David Wilson and Dr. Wen-sung Chung has been invaluable. Their expertise helps ground our educational content in science while making it accessible and captivating for all ages. If you're considering getting involved or building a similar network, my advice is to nurture relationships genuinely. Share your passion openly and listen to the community's needs and ideas. Together, these connections create a powerful force for environmental change, helping us all amplify the importance of protecting insect biodiversity for the future. As we look ahead to 2026, I feel motivated by the network behind these efforts and eager to explore new ways of inspiring curiosity and care for the natural world. It truly takes a village, and I'm grateful to be part of this vibrant community.
