Katie Cleary
Katie Cleary is a passionate advocate for animal welfare and environmental conservation and the founder of Peace 4 Animals.
As an accomplished model, actress, and producer, Katie’s life is defined by her deep commitment to positively impacting the planet and its inhabitants.
Interview by Dina Morrone
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Through her award-winning documentary Why On Earth and relentless work in activism, she has inspired countless people to take action. Read about Katie’s incredible journey, career, dedication to raising awareness for important causes, and vision of a more compassionate world.
What inspired you to enter the world of modeling and acting? Was there a specific moment or influence pushing you toward this career path?
My journey into modeling and acting began at a young age. I was first discovered by an agent from the Elite Kids Modeling division when I was 11 years old during a festival in Chicago. A meeting with the agency followed and I was signed shortly after. Growing up in the era of iconic supermodels like Cindy Crawford and Christy Turlington, I was captivated by the glamour and excitement they brought to the runway and ad campaigns. This inspired me to pursue modeling seriously. My passion for storytelling led me to acting, where I could further delve into diverse characters and narratives.
The influence of actresses like Angelina Jolie and Charlize Theron has been instrumental in shaping my aspirations. Their grace and elegance, coupled with their philanthropic endeavors, have shown me that it is possible to use one’s platform to make a meaningful impact on the world. Their inner and outer beauty, paired with a steadfast commitment to humanitarian and conservation efforts in Africa, has inspired me to pursue my dreams and fueled my passion for using my platform to advocate for animal welfare worldwide and foster positive change.
You’ve made a significant transition from entertainment to animal activism. What sparked this change in your career focus?
My passion for animal welfare has always been a core part of who I am, mainly because I grew up rescuing animals. The transition from entertainment to activism was a natural evolution. After witnessing the injustices and cruelty animals face, I felt a compelling call to use my platform and voice to advocate for them. It was a growing realization that I could merge my career with what I had learned in the entertainment business on various TV and film sets. I applied the same principles to producing and directing documentaries to raise awareness about endangered species. I was also able to use the training I had garnered in hosting and media to create the first-ever animal news network, World Animal News, in order to mainstream animal welfare on a global scale.
How do you balance your roles as a model, actress, and activist? Do these roles complement each other, or do they present challenges?
Balancing my role as a model, actress, and activist presents challenges, yet they complement each other in many ways. On the one hand, my work in modeling and acting has provided me with a public platform, which I have leveraged to highlight critical animal welfare issues. The skills I’ve learned in the entertainment industry, such as public speaking and storytelling, are incredibly valuable in my activism efforts, allowing me to craft compelling messages and engage with a broader audience. This requires time management and a commitment to prioritizing projects that align with my advocacy goals. Despite the juggling act, the synergy between these roles fuels my passion and amplifies my ability to effect change for the animals.
Please share the story behind founding Peace 4 Animals. What inspired you to start this
organization?
Peace 4 Animals emerged from a deep-rooted mission to protect and save threatened and endangered species worldwide. Confronted with the critical plight of tigers and the broader extinction crisis, I knew I had to act. I envisioned an organization that would raise awareness and implement effective solutions to protect endangered species in the U.S. and globally. Additionally, I aimed for the organization to advocate for the most pressing animal welfare and environmental issues of our time.
The pivotal moment occurred one morning when I woke up and had an epiphany. I realized I could use my platform and the skills God gave me to serve a higher purpose. This epiphany galvanized me to establish Peace 4 Animals, with the mission of being a powerful voice for animals worldwide.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced as an animal rights activist? How did you overcome these obstacles?
One of the most significant challenges I’ve faced as an animal rights activist is combating apathy towards animal welfare issues. Many people remain unaware of the severity of animal cruelty and exploitation occurring worldwide. To address this, I concentrate on education and awareness through various campaigns led by Peace 4 Animals and media initiatives via my news network, World Animal News. Another challenge is confronting resistance from industries that benefit from animal exploitation. Overcoming these obstacles requires persistence, strategic partnerships, and innovative advocacy to shift public perception and drive legislative change. We strive to overcome these challenges and foster a more compassionate world by staying focused on the mission and continually adapting our strategies. All in all, my faith in God has gotten me through it all.
Among the projects and campaigns you’ve been involved in, which ones have made the most impact on animal welfare?
One of the most impactful projects I’ve undertaken is my first documentary, Give Me Shelter, which premiered on Netflix in 2015 and was produced using my savings. This film successfully brought global attention to critical animal welfare issues, inspiring countless individuals to take meaningful action. Another impactful project is my second documentary, Why On Earth, featuring Clint Eastwood which, premiered globally on streaming platforms in 2022. This was the most challenging and rewarding film I’ve ever worked on, involving two years of intermittent filming throughout Africa, Indonesia, Mexico, and the U.S. The journey was physically and emotionally taxing, but the effort was worthwhile. By exposing illegal wildlife trafficking, such as the ivory and rhino horn trades, and highlighting the heroes on the ground who dedicate their lives to saving these critical species, I believe this documentary has profoundly shifted people’s perspectives and sparked global advocacy for animal welfare.
How has producing documentaries like Why On Earth helped spread your message? What do you think is the power of film in activism?
Producing documentaries like Why On Earth has been instrumental in disseminating the message of animal welfare. Filmmaking is a uniquely powerful medium because it can evoke profound emotional responses and drive people to take action. Storytelling enables us to reach a broad audience across multiple platforms, educating people on crucial issues and inspiring them to become part of the solution. The emotional connection that viewers form with the stories on screen can lead to lasting change and advocacy, creating a ripple effect that transcends both geographical and cultural barriers.
What motivates you in your activism work, especially when facing resistance or setbacks?
My faith in God is the cornerstone of my motivation, grounding me daily in my mission to protect animals. The resilience and loving spirit of the animals I’ve rescued continually inspires me, reminding me why this work is so crucial. The knowledge that my efforts can bring about genuine, positive change in the lives of these creatures fuels my dedication. The support and shared passion of fellow activists also keep me motivated. Our progress, no matter how incremental, affirms that every endeavor to protect animals worldwide is meaningful and impactful.
Are there any individuals who have inspired you in your activism journey?
Several remarkable individuals have profoundly inspired my activism journey. Jane Goodall’s pioneering animal conservation and advocacy work has been a beacon of hope and dedication. Similarly, David Attenborough’s lifelong commitment to documenting and supporting global conservation
efforts has been inspirational. Their tireless dedication and empathetic approach demonstrate that a single individual’s actions can influence positive change for animals worldwide.
What are some of the most important lessons you’ve learned through your advocacy work and in your career?
One crucial lesson I’ve learned is the power of perseverance. Advocacy work often encounters significant resistance, but persistent and determined efforts can eventually lead to profound change. Patience and resilience are vital in navigating the challenges along the way.
I’ve also discovered the invaluable importance of collaboration. We can amplify our collective impact by joining forces with other organizations and individuals. Different perspectives and skills enrich the advocacy process and drive more effective solutions.
I’ve come to understand that education and awareness are fundamental. By informing and educating others, we expand the circle of people who care and are willing to take action for the welfare of all animals. Knowledge ignites passion and mobilizes support, creating a ripple effect that reaches far beyond the immediate community.
Are there any upcoming projects or initiatives you’re excited about?
We are currently working on an exciting new documentary titled Protectors of the Wild. This pivotal film delves deep into the plight of wolves in North America and examines humans’ profound impact on this critical keystone species. Through this film, we aim to bring much-needed awareness and attention to wolves, which are magnificent, sentient beings that deserve our utmost respect and understanding rather than the unjust vilification they often face.
Protectors of the Wild underscores our collective responsibility to safeguard wolves in the U.S. and across the globe. This film serves as a powerful call to action, urging coexistence between humans and our precious wildlife.
Special Thanks to:
Katie Cleary
photography by Russell Baer
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