Twitch Star Builds Wildlife Sanctuary with Fans

Maya Higa, initially known for her presence on Twitch, has pioneered a novel approach to wildlife conservation with the establishment of Alveus Sanctuary. This nonprofit organization provides permanent homes for rescued animals that cannot be released into the wild.

Utilizing livestreaming technology, Alveus brings its animal ambassadors directly to a global audience, bypassing the physical limitations of traditional sanctuaries. This method fosters a deep emotional connection, allowing viewers to observe animals and learn about their species, ecosystems, and conservation challenges.

In 2021, Higa successfully raised over $500,000 through a fundraising livestream, which was instrumental in founding Alveus Sanctuary. This event demonstrated the power of her online community in generating tangible support for animal welfare.

Alveus's educational programming, such as Animal Quest, aims to transform entertainment into a starting point for learning and action. Collaborations with over 30 creators in 2024 alone have amplified the sanctuary's reach to millions.

Looking ahead, Alveus is developing a Research & Recovery Institute, planning conservation breeding programs for species recovery. Higa's overarching mission, articulated in her 2026 TED talk, is to leverage the internet to cultivate the next generation of conservationists, potentially focusing initially on critically endangered wolves.

WWF recognized Higa's work in 2026, highlighting her community's significant contributions to conservation campaigns. Higa's unique path demonstrates how the internet can be integrated into conservation efforts, with Alveus poised for further expansion.