Katie Cleary always knew she was destined for greater things. Her interest in becoming an actress drove her to move from the Midwest to Los Angeles, where she earned a degree in business and marketing shortly after college. However, she was also passionate about helping animals, and eventually used what she learned in the entertainment industry to further pursue her need to help save wildlife around the world. Katie started her charity Peace 4 Animals at a young age and went on to create the first quadruped-focused global information channel called World Animal News.
Katie Cleary
In August, Katie released her second award-winning documentary, why on earth, starring Clint Eastwood, was directed and produced by her. The film, which highlights the negative impact of deforestation, illegal wildlife trafficking, and the people on the ground fighting to save these animals from extinction, is currently working on her third film about Yellowstone’s wolves.
Here, the big-hearted artist details how she did it.
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find your passion
“Growing up in Chicago, my family and I would find injured wild animals, such as birds that fell from their nests, baby squirrels, or raccoons that lost their parents, and bring them to our veterinarian, who then rehabilitated them. When they’re strong enough, we release them back into the wild. When I started the Peace 4 Animals Foundation in 2012, we focused on protecting endangered species while trying to help save all animal. The key is to make your passion your job. This is my motivation every day. I wake up knowing I want to make the world a better place because I love this planet we call home. “
find your allies
“It’s also really important to surround yourself with like-minded people who are on a mission to pass animal protection legislation. To create real change, you need to pass laws at the federal and state levels. Working with people in the film industry to make amazing Eye-opening documentaries are also critical to mainstream animal welfare worldwide. Our first film, give me shelter Premiering on Netflix in 2015, our latest movie, why on earthh, premiered last month on streaming platforms including Apple, Amazon and Google Play. “
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find your belief system
“My faith has really been a major factor in my success while helping me through some difficult times. I pray for clarity on the direction to go and God always shows me the right path. I am so thankful that I can use my will to entertain cause as a platform for greater causes.”
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