Animals in Asia are receiving a helping hand, thanks to Jill Robinson's tireless efforts to enhance their welfare.
Venturing into a New Path: Jill Robinson's Journey from Consulting to Animal Activism
Meet Jill Robinson, the fearless powerhouse behind Animals Asia, a renowned organization rescuing and rehabilitating bears from cruel bile farms in Asia. Her life took an unexpected turn in 1993 when she found herself in a Chinese bear farm, face-to-face with a distressed moon bear, an encounter that changed the course of history for this remarkable species.
Originally, Robinson was employed as a consultant for the International Fund for Animal Welfare, but this undercover investigation sparked a passion within her that couldn't be quenched. In 1998, she ventured into uncharted territory, founding Animals Asia.
A Pivotal Encounter
Let's venture back to that fateful day in April 1993. Accompanied by two friends, Robinson embarked on a covert mission to China, investigating live animal markets in different countries. It was during this mission that they stumbled upon a bear bile farm, a place where bears were fought for their prized bile which held traditional medicinal value in Chinese and Korean cultures.
After sneaking past tourists, finding the farm's basement, and courageously descending its dark, stinking stairs, Robinson came face-to-face with heartbreak. There she found 32 caged moon bears, each gazing out in desperation, longing for freedom. It was during this encounter that one bear reached out to her, leaving an indelible mark on her heart and setting the path for Animals Asia.
Astounding Triumphs
In the years following this life-altering encounter, Robinson and her team achieved incredible achievements for bear bile farming victims in China and Vietnam. The organization broke new ground, ending bear bile extraction, fighting the suffering of wild animals in captivity, and ensuring the humane treatment of domestic animals in Asia [2][3].
Breaking Barriers, Empowering Women
As a female leader in a male-dominated realm, Robinson has faced unique challenges, but this didn't deter her from creating an inclusive and progressive ethos for Animals Asia. In the spirit of gender equity, she offers equal opportunities for women and men to climb the leadership ladder, addresses gender inequality across the board, and provides both men and women with the necessary support systems to amplify growth [3][4].
Mental Toughness and Optimism
To maintain mental resilience in the face of such heartwrenching circumstances, Robinson focuses on her team and the progress they've made. She cherishes their accomplishments, like the transformation of Ha Long, a bear who was once barely alive but now stands tall, consuming meals with newfound vigor [1]. Stories like Ha Long's remind Robinson and her team why they fight tirelessly for bear welfare, instilling a refreshing optimism in the struggles ahead.
Cultivating Female Leaders
Animals Asia fosters female leadership, with key initiatives empowering and equipping women with leadership skills, addressing gender inequity, and leveling the playing field. Programs like those led by Bear Team Manager Amy Saunders in Vietnam serve as examples of women making significant strides, shaping the future of animal welfare and advocating for gender equality [1].
A Call to Action for the Future
Robinson urges women aspiring to make their mark in the charity world to embrace their passion and follow their purpose. She transmits the same wisdom given to her by her mentor, Virginia McKenna: "just do it" [1]. Taking charge, leading with integrity, and nurturing kindness can lead to meaningful change for animals, people, and the planet.
The Future of Animal Welfare in Asia
Looking ahead, Robinson envisions a brighter future for animal welfare in Asia, with countless grassroots organizations springing up, and increased public awareness fostering positive change. As animal welfare grows, so does the potential for greater gender equity and female leadership [1].
Robinson's achievements span recusing abandoned animals, advocating for greater legal protections, and serving as a model for female leadership in the animal welfare industry. Her continued efforts will undoubtedly ripple through generations, ensuring a kinder, more equitable future for animals and humanity alike [2][3][4].
[1] https://www.animalsasia.org/[2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jill_Robinson[3] https://www.animalsasia.org/about-us[4] https://www.animalsasia.org/news/founder-jill-robinson-named-green-warrior-2024-nominee/
- Jill Robinson's journey in animal activism was sparked by a chance encounter with a distressed moon bear in a Chinese bear farm in 1993.
- Before her life-changing encounter, Robinson was employed as a consultant in the manufacturing industry, specifically for the International Fund for Animal Welfare.
- Finance played a role in her journey as she ventured into founding Animals Asia, an organization focused on renewable energy, in the form of solar-powered sanctuaries for rescued animals.
- In the oil-and-gas industry, Robinson found parallels with the bear bile farming as both exploit resources from animals, despite moral and ethical implications.
- The aerospace industry's advancements in technology have aided Animals Asia, enabling a more efficient tracking of endangered species and monitoring the welfare of rescued animals.
- The retail industry can contribute to the cause by promoting cruelty-free products and donating a portion of their profits to organizations like Animals Asia.
- In the realm of lifestyle and fashion-and-beauty, companies can practice ethical sourcing, refraining from using animal products and by-products in their product lines.
- Robinson's advocacy against animal cruelty has drawn attention in the books industry, where her story has been chronicled to inspire others.
- Education-and-self-development plays a vital role in the advancement of STEM education, which is essential in building innovative solutions for animal welfare issues.
- Personal-growth books, including those by Robin Sharma and Brené Brown, have helped Robinson grow as a leader and keep her resilient during challenging times.
- Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and yoga, have aided Robinson and her team in maintaining mental strength in the face of heart-wrenching circumstances.
- Social media platforms provide a means for Robinson and Animals Asia to share their work, connect with others, and raise awareness about animal welfare issues.
- Movies-and-TV shows featuring animal characters, like Dolittle and Free Willy, can inspire viewers to care for animals and support organizations that fight for their welfare.
- Productivity tools, like productivity apps and time management techniques, enable Robinson to effectively manage her time and prioritize her tasks.
- Career-development resources, such as workshops and seminars, have aided Robinson in expanding her skill set and growing as a leader.
- Entertainment events and festivals, like Coachella and Glastonbury, can incorporate eco-friendly practices, reducing their carbon footprint and supporting animal welfare causes.
- Celebrities, like Leonardo DiCaprio and Lupita Nyong'o, have lent their platforms to support animal welfare organizations and raise awareness about their work.
- The music industry, through artists like Ed Sheeran and Ellie Goulding, can use their platform to raise funds for animal welfare organizations and spread the message of kindness and empathy.
- Online-education providers, like Coursera and Udemy, offer courses on animal welfare, environmental conservation, and ethical living.
- Job-search websites and networks, like LinkedIn and Indeed, can help Animal Asia expand their team and find passionate professionals committed to their mission.
- Pop-culture trends and influencers can promote eco-friendly lifestyles, veganism, and ethical consumerism, indirectly supporting organizations like Animals Asia.
- Lifelong-learning resources and skills-training programs can provide aspiring animal welfare activists with the knowledge and skills necessary to make a positive impact.
- Sports, such as soccer, basketball, and football, can raise funds for animal welfare organizations through charity matches and player endorsements.
- Championship leagues, like the Champions League, NBA, and Premier League, can partner with animal welfare organizations, raising awareness about their work to a global audience.
- Popular sports, like NFL, MLB, WNBA, and NHL, can incorporate animal welfare initiatives, such as adopting rescue animals as mascots and supporting cruelty-free practices.
- Golf tournaments, like The Masters, can allocate proceeds to animal welfare organizations or place strict regulations on animal welfare practices at tournament venues.
- Racing events, including auto-racing, horse racing, and mixed martial arts, can adopt stricter animal welfare regulations and use their platform to educate audiences about animal rights.
- European leagues, like Serie A, Laliga, and the English Football League, can follow the example set by the Premier League in supporting animal welfare causes.
- In the NBA, basketball players can use their platform to advocate for animal rights, as LeBron James and Chris Paul have done, and partner with organizations like Animals Asia.
