My name is Tanya White, I'm 31 years old, and I was born and raised Baltimore, Md. with my older sister and younger brother. I was introduced to the world of animals by my father when I was very young and was always bringing home strays and rescuing injured wildlife. We were always at the aoo, so imagine my surprise when I was given the opportunity to work there in 1998.
I've been at The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore for 11 years and have enjoyed every moment and experience that I've had. For the last 6 years I have been a primary keeper at Polar Bear Watch and work with our three polar bears: Magnet, our male, Alaska, and Anoki, our females. I also work with Arctic fox, northern ravens, and snowy owls at Polar Bear Watch. I've worked with many different animals over the years, but I have to admit that the polar bears are my favorite. They are really amazing animals and I consider it a privilege that they allow me into their world on a daily basis.
When I learned that I had been chosen for the PBI Leadership Camp, I was speechless, which is rare for me. I am very excited to participate in the camp so I can learn to be a better ambassador for polar bears and all other animals. I know that I will come away from this with more knowledge and information that I will be able to share with zoo guests, my fellow keepers, my family, and friends. By sharing all the knowledge that I gather at camp, I hope that I can challenge, motivate, and inspire others to get out, join, and participate in conservation programs and inspire the next generation to do the same.
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