We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kristina Mckean. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kristina below.
Kristina, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?
I was in Thailand and witnessed a baby elephant being exploited in the streets of Bangkok. I instantly knew that something was very wrong and knew I had to do something about it. I went back to the United States and started protesting circuses and learning about the plight of the elephant. I wanted to do something more and after years of singing petitions and protesting, I decided I could use my background in product development and design and create a stuffed animal that could raise funds and awareness for elephants globally. In 2017, I launched the elephant project and have been incredibly grateful of the momentum. I feel like when you have a calling, that becomes your life and what you do. You do not have a choice to do anything differently.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am really happy to know that I have been able to create so much awareness about the plight of the elephant. I believe that our project has gained so much momentum because it is not only a gift that gives back, but inspires children of every age to make a difference.
We are excited to announce that we are expanding and have also created a dog that will help save rescue dogs in The United States and abroad. I really love the underdog and the people who are doing their part to help these animals. I had been following a group of women in China who were rescuing dogs off of meat trucks and I really wanted to help them too. I hope it also encourages people to adopt and not shop!
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Well, I tell my daughters as well as all young people to follow your passion and pick something to help make a difference. There are so many fights to fight and so many parts of our universe that need help-whether its the environment, animals, children, or whatever. We all need to help out and make a difference. I also tell them that you have to be resilient and never give up on your dreams. I have been successful, but I have worked so hard for it. I remember one week I sent out over 1,000 emails and didn’t get one response, but persistence really pays off. I have never given up on my dream and am really proud of all the press and work we have done to date. We have been in vogue, people mag, etc. and it’s all by reaching out. I always say reach for the stars and the worst thing someone can say is-No….but there is always a chance that they will say -Yes!
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
Yes-I am always looking for collaborations. We did a collaboration with Chantecaille last year and it was incredibly successful. Our brands aligned and have similar outreach and it was very successful. We actually sold out in 8 hours. I love hearing from anyone or brand that shares our similar passion to not only help elephants, but all animals. Best way is to email at info@theelephantproject.com or kristina@theelephantproject.com.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.theelephantproject.com
- Instagram: theelephantprojectofficial
- Facebook: the elephant project
- Linkedin: kristina mckean
Image Credits
Jessica Dalene Photography Andrea Russell Photography Sara Prince Photography
