November 29, 2017
Discovering the World of Instant Messaging – WWF explores Viber
At WWF International, we believe that digital engagement is one of the most powerful mediums to mobilize audiences, and propel us to our mission of creating a sustainable future. To put this in context, there are 7.4 billion people on planet Earth, with 3.7 billion internet users; engaging these individuals hold the key to unlocking our vision for the future. We have to be cognizant of the fact that awareness is instrumental to effecting the kind of change we need to urgently achieve today – for positive and lasting impact for our planet, its people and wildlife.
With that in mind, we’re constantly finding ways to stay ahead of the game, and I’m sure many of you reading this aren’t strangers to how fast the digital landscape evolves with the continuous flow of disruptions that new technology brings. However, therein lies our opportunity to make these new forms of technology work for us.
Earlier this year, we went beyond our social media channels and leaped into the world of instant messaging. WWF International teamed up with the amazing team at Viber, giving us the potential to access an entirely new audience base of 800 million users worldwide, and educate them about the importance of protecting our only home. Within 48 hours of launching on Earth Day, we gained 1.2 million supporters – a true testament to the power of using digital to build a better tomorrow! Remember to connect with us on Viber. The digital community that we’ve built over the years truly inspire us. They engage with WWF because they believe in the work we do, and that we all have a hand in altering the future of humanity towards a positive trajectory. WWF’s Instagram community in particular sees one of the best engagement and growth rates, encouraged by the launch of Instagram Stories in 2016.
This feature is more than a simple video or image that disappears after 24 hours – it offers a new method of storytelling, and gives WWF the opportunity to connect on a more personal level with our supporters, whether we’re telling stories of rangers leaving their families to protect our wildlife, or educating our audience on simple, everyday actions they can take to make a difference for our planet.
We’re living in a time where the global challenges that humanity faces are more daunting than ever: from climate change, to widespread destruction of forests, oceans, and more. But we’re also fortunate enough to be living in a shrinking world, where communications is more convenient and impactful than ever before. Getting digital engagement to work for us will be key to educating hundreds and millions of people around the world on the importance of protecting our biodiversity and living a sustainable life.