Edwin  Wiek

Edwin Wiek

Founder & Director, Wildlife Friends Foundation Of Thailand

Industry : Advocacy

Founder and director of Wildlife Friends Foundation of Thailand
(WFFT), one of the largest animal welfare organisations in South
East Asia, Edwin Wiek has made it his life’s mission to be a voice
for the voiceless. Originally from Holland, the Dutchman relocated
to Thailand in 1989 to help build a fashion accessories company
where, two years later, he would find himself in a life-changing
incident that convinced him to sell his company and pursue a
cause passionate to him: animals. With humble beginnings, Edwin
began caring for stray animals while residing in temples with two
of his friends. Twenty-one years later, the foundation has grown
considerably, boasting 124 employees, dozens of volunteers, and
offices in Thailand and Laos. WFFT facilitates several different
projects including animal rescue, rehabilitation, and veterinary care
to both wild and domestic animals. Wiek’s goal is to provide these
services for as long as possible as he believes giving back to
society is what keeps it moving forward.

Edwin  Wiek

Friday Future Lister: Rescuing One Life At a Time —Edwin Wiek's Wildlife Advocacy in Thailand

The Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT) reminds us that every act of kindness, no matter how small, has the power to inspire a more humane world

Animal abuse in Thailand is a pressing issue that calls for action. In the midst of Thailand’s rich cultural heritage, there is a dark side. Unfortunately, animals do witness abuse for financial gain and human pleasure. Animal exploitation exists within the tourism sector including the use of animals as photo props, their involvement in degrading performances, and their captivity in camps.

However, thanks to Future Lister Edwin Wiek, there is optimism for the future of animal welfare in the kingdomKoktail would like to express gratitude towards the Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand (WFFT).

Photo: Courtesy of The Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand

Founder and director of  WFFT, one of the largest animal welfare organisations in South East Asia, Edwin Wiek has made it his life’s mission to be a voice for the voiceless. Originally from the Netherlands, Edwin moved to Thailand in 1989 to help build a fashion accessories company when, two years later, he foundhimself in a life-changing incident that convinced him to sell his company and pursue a cause passionate to him: animal protection. With humble beginnings, Edwin, with two friend, began caring for stray animals residing in temples. Fast forward twenty-one years, the foundation has grown immensely, boasting 124 employees, dozens of volunteers, and offices in Thailand and Laos. WFFT facilitates several different projects including animal rescue, rehabilitation, and veterinary care to both wild and domestic animals. His goal is to provide these services for as long as possible as he believes giving back to society is what keeps it moving forward. 

Officially founded in 2001 by Edwin Wiek, along with the support of local residents from Petchaburi province, they have been making a significant impact for animal protection. The foundation operates as a non-governmental organisation and relies on the generosity of fellow animal protection organisations and individuals who share a strong passion for creating positive change.

Photo: Courtesy of The Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand

Their mission extends across Thailand, with a primary focus on rescuing domesticated and captive wild animals. Edwin continues to lead this initiative, with the help of a dedicated team, mostly from the local community, and a group of international volunteers which are the lifeblood of WFFT’s efforts. With a diverse range of backgrounds, they encompass everyone from gap-year students and those studying wildlife conservation and animal husbandry to scientists, career-transitioners, and retirees.

At the heart of WFFT’s mission is a passionate commitment to altering the behaviour of international tourists visiting Thailand. Often unknowingly, these tourists unintentionally contribute to the illegal wildlife trade and mistreatment of Thailand’s precious wildlife. WFFT strives to raise awareness and advocate for a more compassionate and responsible approach to wildlife encounters in the country.

Photo: Courtesy of The Wildlife Friends Foundation Thailand

WFFT serves as a reminder that positive change is possible when individuals and organisations come together with a shared mission. This foundation also influences the global perspective on wildlife conservation and responsible tourism. With their dedication, there is genuine hope for a more compassionate future for animals in Thailand and around the world.

For more information or to donate, visit wfft.org.

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