Isanaio Anahary
Namoroka — Student Researcher
Isanaio is an early career anthropologist with a strong interest in conservation research. She has participated in multiple interdisciplinary field programs focused on primatology, One Health, and tropical conservation in Madagascar. In 2024, she participated in a One Health field program in Ankarafantsika National Park alongside students from the University of Guelph (Canada), gaining experience in integrative approaches linking wildlife health, ecosystems, and human communities. She also conducted behavioral research on diademed sifaka during a field training program in the Tsinjoarivo Ambalaomby Protected Area, working collaboratively with students from the University of the West of England and the University of Antananarivo. In 2025, Isanaio worked as a research assistant in burned forest habitats in Ankarafantsika National Park, studying the impacts of fire on lemur populations. She additionally completed a field course in primatology and tropical conservation in Andasibe, jointly organized by Bangor University (UK), the University of Antsiranana, and the University of Antananarivo.
Isanaio received her Bachelor’s degree in Biological Anthropology in 2023. She is currently completing a Master’s degree in Biological Anthropology and Evolution, with a specialization in Physical Anthropology, at the University of Antananarivo.
Q&A with Isanaio
What draws you to a career in wildlife conservation?
The more I studied, the more I realized that animals and plants are living beings, just like humans, and they deserve to live. That is why I am happy to be a protector of fauna and flora, because conservation means saving life.
Who or what inspires you?
Seeing Madagascar’s stunning nature through travel, and meeting researchers and conservationists who dedicate their lives to conservation, inspires me every day.
What book has made an impression on you?
The Joy Diet by Martha Beck inspires me to focus on positivity, happiness, and living a meaningful life.
What is your favorite food?
Pizza
What is your favorite movie?
The Lion King, because I love its message about courage and family.
What is one of the coolest experiences you’ve had in your work?
One of the coolest experiences I’ve had was the field training with Bangor University at Andasibe National Park. I was proud to be one of only six Malagasy students selected for this competitive program. During the training, I learned new field techniques and approaches that helped me grow as a researcher. I also really enjoyed working with my team; collaborating with new people enriched my knowledge and experience.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
I would go to Indonesia to discover its wonderful landscapes and incredible biodiversity. I dream of visiting Komodo National Park to see Komodo dragons, the orangutans in Sumatra, and the amazing variety of birds and plants. As an anthropologist, I am also interested in how people in Indonesia live close to nature. I am curious about their culture because I have heard it has many similarities with Madagascar, such as traditions, food, and community life.
Besides lemurs, what is one of your favorite animals, and why?
Dolphins, because they are intelligent, highly social, and cute.
Why do you care about Madagascar and its wildlife?
Madagascar has unique wildlife, including mammals, reptiles, birds, and plants. Madagascar doesn’t have the Eiffel Tower or the Statue of Liberty, but our wonderful nature, forests, and animals are our pride.