Since the YATZ program has gone online, the Mentor team have been developing conservation-based activities for us to engage with at home. Last month, we had the opportunity to get creative and learn about a particular endangered animal that interested us.

I choose a Saola, also known as the Asian Unicorn, which are labeled as ‘Critically Endangered’. These animals are found mainly in the Eastern slopes of the Annamite Mountains in Vietnam and Laos. Most people may have never heard of the Saola, one possible reason for this is scientists have only documented Saola in the wild four times!

My favourite part of this activity was the practical element, we had to create an art piece based on our chosen animal. However the artwork has to be made out of recycled materials we found around our house. I created my art piece as a 3D wall art, this involved a lot of experimentation and patience, but it was definitely worth the effort.

Overall, this activity has given me the opportunity to widen my knowledge about the majestic Saola and how this precious animal needs our help before extinction.

Gina, YATZ member