Born Free appoints new Youth Ambassador to inspire next generation

Photo by Amee Fairbank-Brown on Unsplash

At Born Free, we believe young people should be an important part of the conversation about the future of our planet, as they are the ones who will inherit the consequences of today’s environmental decisions. Young people have as much of a stake in our planet’s future as anyone else, so it’s vital that their voice is heard when discussing such important issues. 

Our Youth and Junior Ambassador Programme provides a platform for young people to share their passion for wild animal conservation and welfare, inspire their peers, galvanise support from communities and decision-makers, and further build a sense of accountability. Their energy and fresh perspectives are helping us to shape a brighter future for wildlife.

Katie has always been passionate about wildlife

Today, we are delighted to introduce a brand-new Youth Ambassador, Katie Still.

13-year-old Katie, who has always been passionate about wild animals, led the way in making her school more wildlife-friendly. Former teachers were impressed by her drive and ability to “speak confidently, engagingly and passionately about the importance of looking after our environment”.

By delivering talks and assemblies, she encouraged her classmates to make environmentally friendly choices and get involved in action against climate change. She also helped lobby for and create an eco-council at her school that still exists today, meaning that its positive impact continues to last, reaching even more young people year-on-year.

Katie said: “I wanted to become an ambassador for Born Free so I could do more to protect animals. Wild animals are such an important part of my identity. That love for the natural world seems to follow me wherever I go, in the books I read, what I watch on TV, the clothes I wear, the music I listen to, even in most of my schoolwork. I can’t really find the words to truly capture how animals make me feel, as love for them simply makes me, me.”

As a Born Free Youth Ambassador, Katie will help amplify vital conversations around wild animal conservation, support our campaigns etc, and encourage even more young people to act for wildlife.

“We are thrilled to welcome Katie as Born Free’s new Youth Ambassador,” said Charlie Smith, Born Free’s Senior Education Officer. “We look forward to working together to help inspire, educate and empower the next generation of wild animals advocates.”

Meet our junior and youth ambassadors        our work to engage with and inspire young people