Saving Aleks: A White Tiger’s 1,600-Mile Journey to Safety
We’re excited to share some very special news with you. Nadiya usually focuses on helping Ukrainian families build stable lives here in the UK — but every now and then, a story comes along that tugs so strongly at our hearts that we just can’t look away. Aleks’ story is one of them.
Aleks is a beautiful white tiger who was left behind in eastern Ukraine when his owner fled the war. When rescuers found him back in 2022, he was in a terrible state — painfully thin, dehydrated, with raw patches of skin, and so weak he could hardly stand. Thankfully, our friends at the Wild Animal Rescue Centre stepped in straight away, giving him months of care and treatment that slowly brought him back from the brink.
Now it’s time for the next chapter. Together with Lincolnshire Wildlife Park, the Wild Animal Rescue Centre, DHL, Global Advocacy Alliance and MSO Zoo Service, we’re helping to bring Aleks safely to the UK. His new home is being specially built at Lincolnshire Wildlife Park — complete with a swimming pool, play areas, underfloor heating and even a dedicated medical ward. In other words: everything Aleks needs for a safe and comfortable life.
Our co-founder, Anna, first came across Aleks’ story and knew instantly that we had to help. “This majestic creature deserves a life of dignity and safety,” Anna says. “We’re honoured to work with our partners to make that a reality for him in Lincolnshire.”
Of course, making a home for a tiger is no small task. Lincolnshire Wildlife Park has launched a fundraising campaign to cover the £100,000 cost of Aleks’ new enclosure. They’re already home to three Bengal tigers, and they’re preparing to welcome Aleks before the school autumn holidays — with DHL generously supporting his long journey to the UK.
This is a project a little outside our usual work, but it captures what Nadiya is all about: giving hope, dignity and a chance to rebuild after hardship. In Aleks’ case, that means trading a place in war-torn Ukraine for a safe haven in Lincolnshire.
If you’d like to follow Aleks’ journey or support his care, you can visit Lincolnshire Wildlife Park’s website or Wild Animals Rescue Centre. Donations can also be made via JustGiving. WARC are currently also searching for placements for 9 lions, 2 more tigers and 2 bobcats.