Our guest is world renowned conservationist Saengduean 'Lek' Chailert who is recognised for her unwavering commitment to the welfare and conservation of Asian elephants. Lek's work spans more than three decades and her tireless efforts have earned her many accolades, including the esteemed Legion of Honor award.

 Lek has been instrumental in improving the lives of hundreds of elephants in Asia through the work of the Save Elephant Foundation, which aims to educate elephant owners and promote compassion and respect towards these majestic creatures. In 2003 established Elephant Nature Park in the picturesque Chiang Mai region of Northern Thailand as a permanent home for injured, neglected and elderly elephants. https://www.elephantnaturepark.org/   She continues to raise awareness about the plight of both captive and wild Asian elephants and initiates projects dedicated to improving their well-being throughout Asia. Despite the challenges posed by a male-dominated industry steeped in tradition, Lek remains committed to advancing the welfare of elephants and spends her days at Elephant Nature Park, caring for the rescued herds of elephants and other animals who have found sanctuary there.

 Lek has an upcoming tour of Australia and New Zealand with her captivating focumentary film "Elephant Mother", and Lek will be present at all the screenings, engaging with audiences during post-screening question and answer sessions. Session details are in the comments.

 "Elephant Mother" is a captivating documentary that highlights Lek's tireless efforts in championing the welfare and conservation of elephants. The film offers a unique perspective into the deep emotional bonds between elephants and the people striving to free them, shedding light on the need for conservation and protection of these majestic creatures.

 Film screenings of Elephant Mother start in Perth on August 27, 2023 and move across the country before heading to New Zealand. 

 Full screening details for can be found here:

 Australia - www.tinyurl.com/Elephant-Mother

 New Zealand – www.tinyurl.com/Elephant-Mother-NZ

 We discussed the documentary Love and Bananas, a film by Ashley Bell who teams up with Lek and goes on a daring mission across Thailand to rescue Noi Na, a 70-year old partially blind trekking elephant and bring her to freedom. http://loveandbananas.com/

 Music we played: Colors of the Wind by Vanessa Williams. 

      "You don't need a bull hook to control an elephant. You can guide an elephant with love... And bananas"

                   - Lek Chailert, Founder of Save Elephant Foundation

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