In this captivating series, "Wildlife Whys," we ask influencers, activists, and experts to answer our burning questions about their passion for wildlife. Join us as renowned actors, scientists, and public figures share their interests and experiences with the animal kingdom.
This week, we spent some time with the incredibly talented Mýa to talk more about wildlife, her activist work, and her compassion for animals.
Q. Please describe an experience you’ve had in the wilderness and what it meant to you.
The wilderness has always been a reminder that everything is divinely crafted. The experience of being surrounded by nature's beauty and immensity is awe-inspiring and humbling, that has allowed me to disconnect from the unnatural ways of society and recalibrate to find peace, self-reflect, earn greater perspective, in the tranquility of the natural world, and be reminded that all of creation is connected.
Q. What particular issues affecting animals are you most interested in and why?
Factory farming, animal testing, poaching, the use of animals in tourism, illegal wildlife trade, overall exploitation of animals for entertainment, vanity in fashion & beauty is all important to me. The horrors of what humans have imposed on animals is unethical and impacts animal populations, ecosystems, extinction of species, while climate change continues to disrupt natural habitats, with decline of biodiversity and the deterioration of overall human physical, mental and spiritual health.
Q. Is there a defining moment when you realized you could do something to help animals? Do you have any experiences helping animals that you would like to share?
Alongside volunteering at local shelters and adopting rescue animals, I have served as spokesperson for North Shore Animal America (NSALA) league for years, run the 26.2 mile NY ING Marathon as part of Team Animal League to raise money for NSALA, and been involved in various other animal organization campaigns with Peta and Mercy For Animals, etc. I now serve as a US ambassador for World Animal Protection Organization and live an all-encompassing vegan life with 9 years in so far (food, fashion, beauty, luggage, handbags, furniture, decor, etc.), spreading the word and helping others transition to a more compassionate lifestyle.
Q. Which of the following Asian species would you most like to help: Rhinos, elephants, tigers, pangolins, or any others?
I think all species and their existence is just as significant as the other, so all of the above.
Q. Do you have a wish for all animals?
My wish for all animals is freedom. Freedom from suffering, exploitation, abuse, torture & murder imposed on them by humans. Animals of all species deserve respect, compassion & protection. To destroy animals and nature is to ultimately destroy ourselves. It’s time that we all make the connection through education, awareness and begin making better choices in our daily lives.
Grammy Award-winning entertainer Mýa is a globally celebrated singer, songwriter, producer, actress, dancer, choreographer, model, philanthropist, activist, and entrepreneur. With a career spanning over 25 years, Mýa's alluring talent echoes around the globe and across decades as a beloved, respected artist. Her self-titled debut album in 1998 went double platinum, producing hit singles such as "It's All About Me," "Movin On," and "My First Night With You." Collaborations with renowned artists such as Christina Aguilera, Lil' Kim, P!nk, and Missy Elliott on the Grammy-winning "Lady Marmalade" and other hits such as "Ghetto Supastar" and "Take Me There" solidified her status as a cross-genre international staple.
Mýa is also a highly respected indelible talent across film, television, Broadway, and gaming, with a Screen Actors Guild award for her performance in the Academy Award-winning film "Chicago." In 2008, Mýa began her own independent label, Planet 9, and has since released over 9 compilations and a Grammy Nominated album. In 2023, Mýa marks her 25th anniversary in the entertainment industry – with much more on the way and the best yet to come!