Experience with an LA based wolf dog sanctuary
And the resulting experimental jewelry brand.
For so long our collective view of wolves has been negative, and we may think of them with fear. However, these beautiful creatures are charming, and gentle beings, teaching us a great deal about respect, kindness, leadership, and partnership.
After discovering Wolf Connection on Instagram a couple of years ago, I got in touch with them, asking if there is a way to visit the sanctuary, and was soon to learn that indeed I could.
When I was living and working in Los Angeles 2017/2018, I drove with my friend to visit the sanctuary, nestled within the expansive beauty of the Angeles National Forest.
Wolf Connection believes, and so do we, that the deep understanding of our relationships with animals and the environment is paramount in our development as individuals, productive societies, and sustainable civilization on this planet. Wolf Connection is a unique educational sanctuary that brings people together through a direct relationship with rescued wolves to empower the next generation to become authentic leaders and stewards of the earth.
TEACHING
True to their tagline, “An ancient bond for modern times,” their purpose as a social network is to provide a place that connects all people who feel a sincere appreciation and connection to the animals in their lives and to the animals of the world. For me, it was a moment of transformation. I became 100% present and vulnerable the minute I stepped into the circle and I learned to be trusting in that experience called life.
WHAT I HAVE LEARNED
Most of us are too much removed from our wild part.
- Wolves are always ok with who they are.
- What part is coming forward, am I the playful one in order not to share my deeper self. What is the story I am telling myself and the rest of the world?
- About dealing with bad experiences: I am taking this, move forward, and never say to this story again unless it is of service to somebody else.
- The wolf part knows how not to hurt itself.
- Wolves understand that they are part of everything around them.
GIVING BACK
I was able to get into an official partnership with Wolf Connection. I founded a jewelry brand, which launched within a year in collaboration with the Austrian startup FabAtelier. The line resonated well with the target audience and thanks to the support of my network, the limited edition of 100 pieces per design sold out quickly. I was able to donate all net sales in 2019, one year after visiting the sanctuary.
My name is Alexandra. I am a creative strategist and currently studying to earn my second Masters, this time around, in Applied Psychology because I believe understanding human nature will help me be a better designer. Let’s connect on LinkedIn and have a chat!
