How Josh Duhamel Is Seeking To End The Illegal Trade Of Wildlife

Photo Credit: WildAid
Josh Duhamel is a man with a mission, and that mission is to end the illegal wildlife trade. The “Transformers” star does this best through his work with WildAid, a non-profit that primarily works to reduce global consumption of wildlife products such as shark fin, rhino horn and elephant ivory by dissuading consumers and providing comprehensive marine enforcement. Here, Duhamel shares why the organization’s message—”When the Buying Stops, the Killing Can Too”—is so important, how he’s personally taking action and what he’s teaching son Axl Jack about civic responsibility.

Photo Credit: WildAid

Why is supporting WildAid so personally important to you?

As somebody who appreciates the beauty of this planet and the beautiful creatures that inhabit it, I feel that WildAid’s work is some of the most important work being done today. They have had a huge impact on people’s awareness about buying illegal animal products. They feel that if we can stop the buying, they can eliminate the demand and the killing will stop.

What inspired you to get involved with WildAid?

The killing of elephants, rhinos and so many other rare animals is so reprehensible that I was inspired to do something. I wanted to be a part of something that was truly making a difference. WildAid is making a huge difference. The progress they’ve made in reducing the worlds demand for illegal animal products is truly inspiring to me. For those who believe it’s too late or there is nothing they can do – take a look at WildAid. We can make a difference. We can save these beautiful creatures

What are some of the most memorable moments you’ve had working with the organization over the years?

Being named the 2017 Wildlife Champion is definitely something I won’t forget. I have also had a lot fun participating in several PSA’s for WildAid over the years and attending the Galas. All of that and just seeing the impact WildAid is having on our planet has been incredibly memorable.

Photo Credit: WildAid

What are you hoping to accomplish through your work with the organization?

My hope is that we save the beautiful animals who are being threatened. My hope is that this senseless killing stops.

Outside of your work with WildAid, what is your greatest life/career achievement and why?

Outside of WildAid, I guess my greatest professional achievement would be writing and directing my first movie last year, “Buddy Games.” I can’t wait for people to see it next year. I look back at the effort and fortitude it took to get it across the finish line and I can’t believe I actually did it. My greatest personal achievement is a no brainer… My son is the reason I do everything I do.

Are you teaching your son anything about giving back or civic responsibility yet or is he too young? What is the most important wisdom you hope to pass on to him/lessons you hope to teach him?

I’m teaching my son to really observe and be mindful of all the beauty around him. I want him to experience what I experienced growing up, whether it’s hiking in the woods or catching frogs and turtles. He is already developing a love for our planet and all its life forms. It’s really fun to see the world through his eyes. In fact, one of the best things about being a parent is that it brings out the kid in you.