In 2019, conservationist and researcher Erfan Firouzi took a significant step in his mission to spread awareness about the natural world by presenting his collection of animal specimens for the first time in public at Gems Modern Academy. This event marked the beginning of Firouzi’s public outreach efforts, aimed at bridging the gap between urban populations and the often-overlooked complexities of nature.
Firouzi’s specimen collection, which was far smaller at the time than it is today, provided a unique opportunity for attendees to encounter creatures they had never seen before—neither alive nor as preserved specimens. Among the few specimens presented were a flower crab, a long spine porcupine fish, a box containing insects, and a few other creatures. Despite the fragility of some specimens, Firouzi’s careful selection allowed him to showcase the diversity and beauty of these organisms, each with its own story to tell.
The organisms in Firouzi’s collection are those that he found naturally deceased during his field research or that were victims of human activities. These specimens serve as powerful tools for education, each representing the intricate web of life that is often disrupted by human intervention. Firouzi’s presentation was not just about displaying these organisms; it was about igniting a passion for conservation in the hearts of those who attended.
Many visitors to the exhibit had never seen these animals alive, nor did they know which species they were. This lack of awareness underscored Firouzi’s mission: to create interest, foster curiosity, and motivate people to protect these species and their habitats. By sharing his collection, Firouzi hoped to bring the wonders of the natural world closer to those who may otherwise never encounter them.Firouzi’s commitment to education and awareness didn’t start with this presentation. He had previously showcased his work at Gems Wellington School, where he began to realize the vast gap in knowledge about nature among the general public.
More than 50% of the human population is urbanized and that means they are out of touch with the natural world, they have to be allowed to see it, to understand and to love it. They have to be face to face with the complexities and the beauties of the natural world.
Firouzi has made it his mission to bring the complexities and beauties of the natural world into the lives of those who are out of touch with it. His specimen presentations are more than just educational displays; they are an invitation for people to reconnect with the world around them, to appreciate its intricacies, and to join the fight to preserve it for future generations.
As Firouzi’s collection has grown over the years, so has his impact. Each presentation serves as a reminder of the delicate balance that exists within nature and the urgent need to protect it. Through his work, Firouzi continues to inspire others to take action, ensuring that the natural world remains a vital part of our lives, not just a distant memory.
