Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Nina Jackel. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Nina, thank you so much for joining us. You are such a positive person and it’s something we really admire and so we wanted to start by asking you where you think your optimism comes from?
As an animal protection activist, optimism is a must for maintaining hope. I don’t think I could do this work without it, as the constant flow of animal cruelty cases can be tough to handle. To me, optimism comes from knowing that my actions are making a difference. When I see photos of the dogs, cats, cows, turkeys and other animals that my organization has helped heal, feed, and house, I internalize that there is goodness in the world beyond the pain that these animals once endured.
On a broader level, I see systemic progress and change on a near-daily basis. Around the world, animal protection laws are gaining strength. More people than ever are aware of the cruelest industries, like fur, medical research, and factory farming, and they are no longer willing to participate in animal suffering.
That said, we have a very, very long way to go before our fellow species are given the respect and humane treatment they deserve. This is where that optimism is crucial. Permanent change happens far more slowly than I’d like, and so many animals endure heartbreaking abuse at the hands of humans without consequence. When this feels overwhelming, I remind myself that I’m doing something about it, and my optimism is restored.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
I’m the founder of Lady Freethinker, a nonprofit organization working to achieve a more compassionate world for all species.
LFT works to expose and stop animal cruelty through investigative reporting and other media, citizen petitions, and partnerships with rescuers and activists on the ground worldwide. We believe that by changing the norms and policies that allow cruelty, we can end human-caused suffering of all species — from the dogs and cats we call family to the billions of pigs, chickens and cows suffering on factory farms, to the human animals who need our help.
I believe that creating systems that protect us all, regardless of species, is the key to building a free and compassionate world for generations to come.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Three qualities that proved essential for building a successful nonprofit were resilience, patience, and dedication. Lady Freethinker took years to become sustainable, which meant that in the beginning I donated plenty of money and time. Through resilience I was able to get past the tough times when 7 website views in a day was a high (now we get tens of thousands). Through patience I was able to keep going and never give up on creating something I believed in no matter how long it might take. And dedication was essential for putting in endless hours — a full time job on top of my “day job” for a while — with no promises of success.
Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?
I have to thank my husband for assuring me that my ideas were not “silly” and that I was worthy and capable of following my dreams. Imposter syndrome is real, and it’s hard to be a creator and not doubt yourself at times. Although I believe it’s entirely possible to thrive alone, it really helps to have someone to cheer you on in your hardest moments.
The team at Lady Freethinker also helps me every day with their endless dedication to helping animals and unwavering belief in the work we are doing. True change happens with a caring community, and I’m fortunate to have one.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://ladyfreethinker.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ladyfreethinker
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LadyFreethinker/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ninajackel
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/LadyFreethinker
