Tips for success from fellow Ambassadors

Illustration of 2 people watering a plant

We’re proud to say that the Panda Ambassador program has no shortage of exceptional activists who are bringing WWF’s mission to their local communities through impactful and innovative projects. So we thought to ourselves: who better to provide advice and ideas to new Panda Ambassadors, or any Ambassadors who are feeling stuck, than those champions? Read on to hear from five exceptional leaders!

How do you find inspiration for your Panda Ambassador projects?

Cecilia (CA): I personally find inspiration for my PA projects by what's going on in the world. Whether it's policy, a local issue or even just seeing litter in my community, it makes me want to get involved and do my part. I find other PA projects very inspirational because everyone is doing a variety of things and they all make a difference. Sometimes you can make a big difference just by taking small steps that in turn inspire others.

Nicole (MD): I find inspiration from current events and books that I read, places that I travel to and from community spaces that I frequent. As someone who actively enjoys activities based in nature and having environmental discussions, I try to engage with other like-minded people which at times has sparked larger ideas like co-collaborating on a blog.

Brianna (FL): I am inspired by current events, trash in a pond in my neighborhood, questions from kids and my students, botanical gardens, nature-based narratives, and other Panda Ambassadors.

Jaimi (VA): I find inspiration by thinking, "What would I want to see within my community?" The first thing that popped into my mind was a community cleanup, and so, a cleanup became my first project! I really enjoy hosting cleanups as they are a great community-building event, you can get creative with them, and it can always be a different location. I also love to think outside my comfort zone, so after I did a cleanup, I thought "What is something I have never done before?" I pulled inspiration from that and even though it can be intimidating, it is extremely gratifying. It takes patience, but you will know once you find the perfect project for you! I also always put myself in the mind of a participant and, again, think "What do I want to see more of?" "What would I want to learn more about?" "What can I do to help make changes in my community?"

Do you pick one topic of interest to stick to for all of your work as a PA, or do you prefer to jump around topics?

Cecilia (CA): I tend to jump around, though I do try to use my skill set of art and animation when I can. I like bringing my passions together and I feel like using my artistic skills is something extra I can use in my own particular toolkit. I have a soft spot for animals, so a lot of my projects focus on wildlife and conservation.

Nicole (MD): I prefer to work on one project at a time and keep ideas in a journal to circle back to. However, my projects are often about different topic areas. During this program I have really enjoyed being able to take a deeper dive into multiple topic areas and enjoy the flexibility of working on projects that are most resonating with me and my community. For example, as one of my projects this year I worked on a park clean-up in my neighborhood and recently others in my community have taken a similar lead to plant trees and make an impact on cleaning up the recreation area.

Brianna (FL): While I tend to jump around issue areas a bit, I have a sort of pattern when it comes to projects. I lean towards political related actions, those around education and educational institutions, and those the people close to me are interested in participating in.

Jaimi (VA): I love going out of my comfort zone. This not only benefits me but also my community. It makes me more well-versed in so many aspects of the environment. There have been many times that I have thought. "There is no way anyone is going to show up." Luckily, I have been wrong on every account. It can definitely be scary, but the impact is 100% worth it! Remember why you became a Panda Ambassador and let that passion pull you forward!

How do you find time to be active in the Panda Ambassador program, attend monthly calls and connect with others? Is it difficult?

Cecilia (CA): It can be pretty difficult to make time for the PA program with my busy day job schedule, but to me, it's worth finding the time. I try to keep things in perspective and I feel like the work we do as PAs is something really special. We know how important these issues are to our world and how it affects us all, so that keeps me motivated to stay engaged.

Nicole (MD): Being active in the Panda Ambassador program is not difficult because I really enjoy seeing what other PA’s and WWF staff are working on. I have admired WWF for a very long time, so being an ambassador is a privilege. My advice for any PA who may be struggling with managing time and involvement due to other commitments, is to make sure to designate time on your calendar to attend a call or check in on Mobilize. The community is wonderful and can always offer additional tips or strategies to help you achieve your goals and keep you on track with involvement!

Brianna (FL): It is important to remember projects do not have to be flashy or large to make an impact – mix and match project types, repeat projects that have worked, and design projects around goals you already have for yourself personally.

Jaimi (VA): It absolutely is not difficult because I love what I do as a Panda Ambassador! I have admired WWF since I was a child so being able to be an ambassador is an honor and a privilege. The most difficult part has been the past few months because I have relocated to a new state, started a brand new job, and become completely independent for the first time in my life. Knowing that I have my fellow pandas has grounded me through all of this, though! It truly is such a beautiful and supportive community to be a part of! It is all about finding the balance with what works in your schedule. It is a commitment, but when you care so much about WWF's mission, it doesn't feel like work. As far as attending calls, even in times when I cannot make the calls, I am sure to set aside time on my day off to watch the recordings.

What is your #1 piece of advice for new Panda Ambassadors?

Cecilia (CA): I would say explore the projects other people have done and don't be afraid to get started. It can be intimidating choosing your first project, but the PA program offers so many wonderful suggestions and opportunities. I think once you get started, you'll see how great it can be and learn from each project you do. Don't hesitate to reach out to PAs on an individual level if you need any help or advice and choose projects that truly interest you, so you'll stay motivated.

Nicole (MD): My biggest piece of advice would be to follow your passions and don’t ever think a project or idea is too small to start with! No matter what the scale of the project, it can make a difference and may even lead to deeper conversations and new connections. Also, as a similar sentiment, do not hesitate to initiate a conversation with fellow members. There is a lot of great collaboration happening in the community and you are now part of this amazing effort.

Brianna (FL): I think it is important to remember that any landscape (even your yard) can be a project location or inspire one and to find the political and environmental in the everyday.

Jaimi (VA): Let your passion be your guide! You most likely became a Panda Ambassador because you love the environment and you want to make your voice heard, so do exactly that! There are so many avenues in terms of the environment and endless possibilities to find your niche. Don't be afraid to experiment a little and find what works best for you. When things get tough, intimidating, or overwhelming, remember why you became a Panda Ambassador in the first place. Remember the message that you want to spread. When all else fails, turn to your fellow Ambassadors, they have your back!