When passion finds its purpose: my first year with Animals Asia

I’m Niki Wu, Bear & Vet Team Director at Animals Asia’s China bear sanctuary.

This month I celebrate my year work anniversary. Reflecting on it, I feel like everything in my journey so far has led me to this moment.

So I’d love to share my story with you: the path that took me from being a regular university student to an active volunteer, from a Director at PwC to the Bear & Vet Team Director here at Animals Asia’s China bear sanctuary.

Niki has been with Animals Asia for one year.

𝐇𝐨𝐰 𝐢𝐭 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐞𝐝

My journey with Animals Asia began long before I joined. In 2010, as a university student, I visited their China bear sanctuary. That visit planted a seed that would shape the next phase of my life.

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐯𝐨𝐥𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐞𝐫 𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐡

I like to think that I’m a generous, caring and loving person. I have always wanted to help those in greater need and this is when I feel most alive, thus volunteering has always been central to who I am.

After the 2008 Wenchuan earthquake, I joined a local NGO to help rebuild devastated communities, creating sustainable job opportunities and environmental education programs. This experience sparked a sense of social responsibility which has never left me. Since then, I’ve volunteered with many NGOs, including with the Animals Asia London Supporters Group.

Along the way, my passion for wildlife and conservation grew. I designed trips to combine travel with learning: trekking to see mountain gorillas in Uganda, assisting dog shelters in Albania and assisting conservation projects in Kenya. These experiences deepened my understanding and strengthened my desire to make a bigger impact.

𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐮𝐥𝐥 𝐜𝐢𝐫𝐜𝐥𝐞

When the Bear & Vet Team Director role at Animals Asia opened, it felt less like starting a new chapter and more like coming home. One year in, I’m grateful every day for the privilege of working with our bears, our stunning environment, and an incredible team.

This journey has taught me that purpose and passion can guide a career, but it’s the people, experiences, and moments of connection that make it meaningful. I hope to continue leading from behind, supporting the team, and advancing animal welfare for the bears, for the people, and for the world around us.