A 22-year-old brown bear named Trishka has just arrived in Belgium after a life-changing journey from Kazakhstan — made possible thanks to the coordinated efforts of Lufthansa Cargo, the NGO Bears in Mind, and a small but dedicated group of animal welfare advocates.

Trishka’s story began in 2002, when she was found as an orphaned cub after her mother was killed by hunters. Alone and frightened, she wandered onto a roadside where she was discovered by a gamekeeper. Local zoos, under severe economic strain at the time, were unable to take her in. That’s when the gamekeeper turned to Yelena, a local woman known for caring for animals. She agreed — and gave the cub a name: Trishka, shared Lufthansa Cargo in a LinkedIn post. 

What followed was a remarkable two-decade bond between human and bear. “Trishka was fearful at first,” Yelena shared, “but with time, and with the help of our Central Asian Shepherd dogs, she grew up strong and deeply attached to us.” For 22 years, Trishka lived as part of the family — until Yelena’s health forced her to relocate to Spain. Taking Trishka with her was not an option.

That’s when Bears in Mind stepped in. The Netherlands-based organisation, known for its work supporting bear welfare and conservation, secured Trishka a place at a specialised bear sanctuary in Belgium. But finding a home was only part of the challenge — getting her there safely would require complex international logistics, veterinary coordination, and, crucially, an experienced air freight partner.

Lufthansa Cargo took on the responsibility of moving Trishka across borders. With years of experience in transporting live animals and a strong commitment to animal welfare, the carrier handled the operation with care and precision.

In early May, Trishka was flown from Kazakhstan to the European Union — her first and only international flight. She arrived safely in Belgium and is now settling into her new home, where she will have access to open, natural spaces and the company of other bears. The sanctuary offers specialised care, enrichment, and, most importantly, peace.

“After 22 years, Trishka is finally surrounded by her own kind — in a place designed for her wellbeing,” said a spokesperson from Bears in Mind. “She’s still healthy, active, and curious. Her story isn’t ending — it’s starting a new chapter.”