Laura Coleman
Writer and Artist
About me
I'm a writer, activist and artist. My pronouns are she/they.
In 2007 I went to Bolivia, and joined the NGO, Comunidad Inti Wara Yassi (CIWY), which manages three wildlife sanctuaries and gives homes to animals rescued from illegal wildlife trafficking. It was this work, the communities and the stories that I found there, that, in 2012, inspired me to start the Brighton-based charity ONCA. Panthera onca means jaguar. Bridging social and environmental justice issues with creativity, ONCA promotes positive change by facilitating inclusive spaces for creative learning, artist support, story-sharing and community solidarity.
In 2018, I moved to the Western Isles in Scotland with my friend and companion, a dog called Nelo. I live and write by the sea, often travelling in a van called Wanda, whilst also being on the board of ONCA and Friends of Inti Wara Yassi, the UK charity that supports CIWY’s work.
My first book - a memoir, about life changing relationships with rescued wild animals - is published by Little A. It's called THE PUMA YEARS.
I am represented by Rocking Chair Books.