Malagasy

They are drawn from different backgrounds and nationalities: French, South African, Filipino, Malagasy and more.

They are calling for a higher conservation status for two endangered Malagasy species, including the biggest and most famous of Madagascar's baobabs, the giant baobab.

They are also known as "mother of the forest" in Malagasy language, the "upside down tree" and the "tree of life".

There, she documented the origin myths and oral traditions of the Malagasy people as an ethnographer.

"The Malagasy people have chosen the path of continuity, serenity and stability," Rajoelina, a 49-year-old entrepreneur and former DJ, said after results were announced.