Stewards of Tomorrow: Purpose. Direction. Global Responsibility. 

The theme reflects the responsibility of today’s zoo and aquarium community to make decisions that will influence the future of animals, people and the planet. 

Meaningful stewardship depends on three interconnected elements: 

Purpose: Remaining grounded in why our institutions and global community exist. 

Direction: Translating ambition into clear priorities, decisions and action. 

Global Responsibility: Recognising our shared responsibility to act for animals, species, ecosystems, communities and future generations. 

The conference will create a collective moment to reaffirm our purpose, shape shared direction and strengthen the contribution of zoos and aquariums to global conservation and animal welfare.

Lead with Purpose 

Our ability to navigate change begins with a clear understanding of our purpose and the impact we want to achieve. 

The conference will reconnect participants with the fundamental role of modern zoos and aquariums: advancing animal welfare, contributing to species conservation, connecting people with nature and using our collective influence to support a thriving planet. 

Delegates will be encouraged to consider how a strong and clearly articulated purpose can guide institutional priorities, leadership decisions and long-term impact.

Shape Shared Direction 

No institution can address the challenges facing animals and nature alone. Progress depends on our ability to establish shared priorities and move forward together. 

The conference will provide a trusted space for the global community to exchange knowledge, challenge assumptions and contribute to the conversations shaping the future direction of zoos and aquariums worldwide. 

By bringing together diverse regional, institutional and professional perspectives, the conference will help identify areas in which stronger alignment and collective action can increase our global impact.

Act with Global Responsibility 

As globally connected institutions, zoos and aquariums have a responsibility to consider how their decisions affect animals, species, ecosystems, communities and future generations. 

The conference will explore how individual institutions and the wider WAZA community can turn global responsibility into credible leadership and measurable action. 

Delegates will examine how decisions made today can contribute to stronger animal welfare, more effective conservation and a more resilient future for people and the planet.