Canvas Rebel: Meet Kristina Mckean
We recently connected with Kristina Mckean and have shared our conversation below.
Kristina, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. We’d love to have you retell us the story behind how you came up with the idea for your business, I think our audience would really enjoy hearing the backstory.
In 2001, while traveling through Thailand, I witnessed a baby elephant being abused on the streets of Bangkok. That moment changed my life forever. It was before the days of social media, but I knew I had to act. I began protesting circuses, signing petitions, and connecting with other elephant advocates. Still, it never felt like enough.
One day, while watching my daughters play with stuffed animals, I was inspired to use my background in product development and design to create a stuffed animal that could raise awareness and funds for elephants worldwide. In 2017, I launched the Elephant Project. I believed that teaching children from an early age was the best approach, and if you’re going to buy a gift, why not choose one that gives back?
I began with the girl elephant, Kiki, and later added the boy elephant, Tembo. They became so popular that I expanded the collection to include lions and dogs as well. They make wonderful gifts for children of all ages.
Kristina, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
With a background in product development and design, I’ve always been a passionate animal advocate, especially for elephants. Witnessing elephant abuse in Thailand sparked a deep calling to help them, which grew into a mission to also make a difference for lions in captivity and dogs worldwide suffering in shelters or from abuse. The dog stuffed animal, LuLu, was inspired by rescuing a golden retriever from an abusive situation, a reminder that purebred dogs are found in shelters too. More recently, I rescued a golden retriever and a poodle from a meat truck in China. Educating both children and adults about the struggles these animals face and how we can help is essential to me. I tell people that if you’re fortunate enough to travel to incredible places, it’s your responsibility to ensure you’re not exploiting the land or animals. For me, The Elephant Project is more than just a philanthropic toy company—it’s a platform to help as many animals as possible.
Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?
I recently visited The Elephant Nature Park in Thailand, an incredible sanctuary for abused elephants, and I’ve become a passionate supporter and friend of the place. I brought my oldest daughter along, and during our visit, Lek, the sanctuary’s owner, took us to see an area where elephants weren’t being treated well. Suddenly, a massive herd of elephants rushed toward us—it was terrifying at first, but as they got closer, they stopped and quietly approached us.
I truly believe elephants know who is helping them and kind. Lek-the owner of the sanctuary always says “elephants pick their people”-and I believe that is true!
How did you build your audience on social media?
I’ve always been open about my mission and stayed true to my cause. My goal has always been to save them, and I think that shows in everything I do. My intentions are pure, and I believe you can’t go wrong with that.
Contact Info:
Website: https://www.theelephantproject.com
Instagram: theelephantprojectofficial
Linkedin: kristinamckean
