Are we seeing a wave of optimism in conservation and sustainability circles? A theme winds through this episode as we unpack reasons to be hopeful that things are changing for the better around the world. Peter’s editorial talks about South Africa’s Youth Day being the inspiration for World Day of the African Child - a day that shines. spotlight on th education challenges that still face the continent and how conservation can play a role in this much needed correction. How big are countries relatively speaking? Here’s a way to compare them. Whales wash ashore in California, adding to the global concern of the impact of shipping on whales, but perhaps there is new hope. A new movement is growing and even The Ocean Race is playing their part. Can you really be swallowed by a whale? The mistreatment of diary cows has Shannon fuming and rightfully calls for industrial farming practices to be discouraged. But should it happen over night? Are overnight bans or restrictions reasonable for activists to expect? Israel bans fur trade and calls on other countries to do the same. The elephants trekking through China are now under a police guard. Good news from Indonesia - 2 baby Javan rhino have been spotted! Kenya announces elephant naming festival to boost conservation awareness. Staying in Kenya - Paula Kahumba joins this years list of Rolex National Geographic Conservation winners. Well deserved. More prize winners as “The Green Nobel Prize” - the Goldman Environmental Prize announces its winners - and 5 of the 6 are women. A great proof point of the transformational work that is being achieved on the ground around the world.