For most visitors, Mandai is where unforgettable wildlife encounters happen. For Jing Yi and Brendan, it’s where those encounters become opportunities to inspire people to care for nature.

Jing Yi helps students connect with wildlife through education, while Brendan brings conservation stories to life through digital content. They share what their work involves, how they found their way to Mandai and why conservation begins with changing mindsets.

Can you tell us more about what you do and how your role supports wildlife conservation at Mandai?

Jing Yi: As an Assistant Manager in the Education team, I connect people with wildlife in meaningful ways.

I work with schools to develop educational programmes, create learning resources, facilitate workshops and build partnerships with educators. One programme I’m especially proud of is Mandai Action for Wildlife, where students identify real wildlife challenges in Singapore and develop solutions that make a positive impact in their communities.

For me, conservation education isn’t just about animals. It’s about helping the younger generation realise that everyone can make a difference, no matter how small their actions may seem.

Brendan: I’m part of Destination Marketing’s social media team, where I help drive social-led community initiatives, social listening and social content production support.

I believe the best way to build awareness around Mandai’s purpose and vision is by engaging our community. By understanding what people are saying online, we can shape narratives that reflect their voices. These two-way interactions give our audiences a genuine window into what we do and why it matters.

How did you first find your way to Mandai? Was this always the career you had in mind?

Jing Yi: Not at all! In fact, this wasn’t the career path I originally envisioned.

After graduating, I was exploring different opportunities when a friend came across a job opening in Mandai’s Education team. Knowing I enjoyed working with children and loved nature, she encouraged me to apply, and I’m really glad I did.

Almost 10 years later, what started as an unexpected opportunity has grown into a career that I genuinely enjoy. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how education can empower young people to become advocates for wildlife.

Brendan: Ask any of my friends what my dream job was growing up, and they’ll tell you it’s always been to work with Mandai!

Like many Singaporeans, I grew up visiting the Singapore Zoo and Jurong Bird Park, and that’s where I fell in love with the work that Mandai does. It inspired me to pursue a career where I could play a part in celebrating our nature and wildlife.

What does a typical day look like for you?

Jing Yi: No two days are ever the same, and that’s one of the things I love most about my role.

Some mornings, I might be facilitating a school programme or guiding students through the parks. By the afternoon, I could be brainstorming new learning activities, meeting teachers, writing programme proposals, or collaborating with our wildlife experts to ensure our content is scientifically accurate.

Brendan: Some days are packed with facilitating shoots in the parks, while others are spent editing videos and planning content for the months ahead.

Social listening is also a big part of what I do. I analyse online conversations, spot key trends, and think about how we can turn those insights into stories that connect with people while staying true to Mandai’s purpose.

How do you make conservation education engaging and relevant for students today, Jing Yi?

We encourage students to slow down and observe because curiosity starts with noticing the little things, like the sounds an animal makes or how it moves. Instead of starting with facts, we ask relatable questions like, “Have you ever noticed what wildlife lives in your neighbourhood?”

That helps them see conservation as something close to home, rather than something distant or only for those in the field. We also share real accounts of people protecting local wildlife or finding ways for humans and animals to coexist. It makes these stories more relatable to them, and not just another lesson.

Brendan, if a student could swap places with you for a day, what do you think they’d be most excited about?

Definitely the video or photoshoots! Though they can be tiring, shoots are honestly one of the most enjoyable parts of my role. Getting to speak with the passionate team of Wildlifers and spend time around so many amazing animals, each with its own personality, is something I think students would really enjoy.

Has there been a particular moment that reminded you why your work matters?

Jing Yi: One moment that really stayed with me was during our Mandai Action for Wildlife programme.

A group of students realised many of their schoolmates were unfamiliar with Singapore’s native wildlife. They designed digital games, handmade stickers and giveaways to encourage people to coexist with wildlife, then shared their work with visitors at booths in our parks.

Watching them confidently engage with members of the public reminded me that conservation education can empower young people to become advocates for wildlife and inspire others to take action.

Brendan: For me, it’s seeing how engaged our community is with what we do. Watching people from around the world come together on social media to talk about wildlife conservation and share their appreciation with us makes the work meaningful.

One moment that stood out was the heartfelt responses to our casting call for curious kids during the launch of Curiosity Cove. Seeing so many families take part brought me real joy because I knew I’d played a small part in introducing them to the beauty of wildlife.

Finally, what advice would you give to students who are keen to join Mandai?

Jing Yi: Don’t wait until you’ve graduated to start making a difference. Volunteer, join nature groups, or simply spend more time exploring Singapore’s biodiversity. Every experience helps you better understand the challenges facing wildlife.

Most importantly, stay curious and don’t be afraid to try new things. Your career doesn’t have to follow a straight path — mine certainly didn’t. What matters is having a genuine desire to learn, contribute and make a positive impact.

Brendan: Go for it and join the wild side! If you resonate with the work we do and you’re passionate about wildlife, don’t let anything hold you back from exploring a career here.