The ZSL community storybook

Your Story: Our History

The ZSL Community Storybook is a space for anyone connected to ZSL – past or present – to share their ZSL memories, moments and milestones. Whether you worked with us, visited our zoos, supported our mission, or simply have a story to tell about us, we’d love you to add your voice.

Together, we’re creating one giant global storybook that celebrates the many ways ZSL has been part of people’s lives over the past 200 years – and reflects how people have shaped our history. It’s also a way for those who can’t join an anniversary event in person to still be part of our historic anniversary year.
At the end of 2026, the Community Storybook will join the collection in the ZSL Library and Archives, preserved for future generations to explore. Add your story and help us make history together.

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3 entries.
Pippa Carte - Director of Development at ZSL wrote on January 16, 2026
What a privilege as a member of the ZSL team working in Fundraising to be welcomed into the world of wildlife health and pathology. The chance to view a dissection of a harbour porpoise was educational, fascinating and simply wonderful! There are so many experts in so many fields at ZSL all working together to protect wildlife. Their work is only made possible by the fabulous community of support. Thank you to you all - Members, Fellows, Patrons, Donors, Corporate partners, Fellows and Volunteers - for sharing in the mission to protect species and restore habitats.
Timon Drakesmith - Chief Financial Officer at ZSL wrote on January 18, 2026
In the early 2000s I was an executive in the property sector in the West end and Kings Cross. I used to regularly run around Regent's Park enjoying the views of camels, giraffes and the Snowdon Aviary. Little did I know that I would actually work at London Zoo later in my career. What a great outcome!
Tina Campanella wrote on January 19, 2026
Coming to London Zoo or Whipsnade Zoo was a birthday tradition throughout my 20s. I always came on a weekday, alone or with a friend, and spent a happy day exploring this historic place and the animals I'd only ever seen in books or on TV. It always made me happy and feel connected to nature, particularly living in a city. In my 30s I was lucky enough to come and work at ZSL, and it's been the best ten years of my working life. I still look at those pics of me in my 20s, at the Zoos - that girl never imagined she would be so lucky as to spend every day there.