Celebrating women’s achievements for animals this International Women’s Day

Edith Kabesiime

Edith Kabesiime has over 25 years of experience and leads on World Animal Protection’s wildlife campaigns across Africa to protect wild animals by working with young people, governments, experts and coalitions to end the exploitation of wild animals used as luxury pets and medicines. She previously headed CARE International’s Women Empowerment in Natural Resource Conservation and governance work in Uganda.

Edith has a Master of Science (Environment and Natural Resource Management), Bachelor of Science (Botany & Zoology), Diploma in Plant Conservation Techniques, Plant taxonomy and a Diploma in Education.

"Joining World Animal Protection has given me the opportunity to use my passion and experience to make animals’ lives better in whatever small way I can. I have raised the profile of the welfare of wild animals and educated young people across many countries in Africa why it should matter to them to protect wild animals."

Kelly Dent

As Director of External Engagement at World Animal Protection, Kelly leads the political and corporate influencing work. She uses advocacy to influence governments and business to improve the lives of billions of animals.

Kelly has 25 years’ experience championing change for animals, people and the planet, and has worked on climate action, human rights and development. She has lived and worked in Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Thailand, Bangladesh, Hong Kong and the Netherlands.

“Doing good for me is making a just world, a sustainable world and a world where we tackle inequality as much as possible. Throughout my career I have been fortunate to work in roles with purpose.”

Joanna Kerr

Joanna Kerr is the International Board Chair of World Animal Protection and the President and CEO of MakeWay. She has dedicated her career to advancing social justice and women’s rights, a healthy environment, and strong civil society. Prior to joining MakeWay in 2019, Joanna led Greenpeace Canada, was the first female Chief Executive of ActionAid International based in South Africa, and the ED of the Association for Women’s Rights in Development.

She currently serves as the Chair of the Equality Fund, Canada’s global fund for women.

“I dream of a future when humans have woken up and realized that we share this planet with other species — not to dominate them, but to live in reciprocal interdependent relationship.”

This year’s International Women’s Day theme is #ChooseToChallenge, which encourages each and every one of us to challenge gender bias and discrimination as we work toward a gender equal world. Together, we must celebrate women’s achievements, raise awareness against bias, and take action for equality.

How do you #ChooseToChallenge? Share this article below and let us know!