Greenwich Wildlife Network Appoints Australian Activist Philip Wollen as First-Ever Patron

Greenwich Wildlife Network (GWN), a South East London-based wildlife rescue and advocacy charity, is proud to announce the appointment of its first-ever patron, Australian activist and philanthropist Philip Wollen.

A former Vice President of Citibank, Wollen left the world of global finance to dedicate his life to advancing human and animal rights. Over the past two decades, he has become one of the most prominent global advocates for the protection of animals and the extension of justice and compassion across species.

His work has been recognised with numerous honours, including the Order of Australia Medal, Australian of the Year (Victoria), the Albert Schweitzer Award, the Peter Singer Prize and Medal, and an Honorary Fellowship from the Oxford Centre for Animal Ethics.

Whether addressing the exploitation of animals for food, hunting, experimentation or entertainment, Wollen has consistently spoken out against cruelty in all its forms. His advocacy is rooted in the belief that empathy and justice must extend to all beings, regardless of species - a principle that lies at the heart of Greenwich Wildlife Network’s mission.

As Wollen states:

I discovered that when we suffer, we suffer as equals, and in their capacity to suffer, a dog is a pig is a bear… is a boy.

Greenwich Wildlife Network works across South East London rescuing, rehabilitating and advocating for wildlife, while campaigning against cruelty and preventable harm. The appointment of a patron marks a significant milestone in the charity’s development and growth.

“We are deeply honoured that Philip has chosen to stand alongside us,” said Rae Gellel, Founder of Greenwich Wildlife Network. “After many years of working to make our voices heard for animals - often the most maligned and unfairly vilified species, such as pigeons - his support is both encouraging and energising. It sends a powerful message to our team to keep fighting.”

Wollen’s backing provides both moral support and increased visibility for the charity’s ongoing work to protect wildlife, challenge systemic cruelty and advocate for meaningful legislative change.

For Greenwich Wildlife Network, the appointment represents not only institutional progress, but a profound affirmation of its mission from one of the world’s most respected voices in animal advocacy.