A FuRfilling Life
Meet Aarthi Sankar, the woman who has devoted her life and career to animal welfare with a mission to seek fulfilment.
Story and Illustrations by Ankita Tiwari
Photos courtesy of SPCA Singapore
In a world where the concrete jungles dominate the landscape and the pressures of work have permeated our lives, we often overlook the smaller things in life, such as the soft cries for help and gentle taps of animals. With these helpless creatures left to fend for themselves, the Society for Prevention of Cruelty against Animals (SPCA) stands as a beacon of compassion and tirelessly advocates for the unheard and lost.
Leading this team is the 36-year-old Aarthi Sankar, its Executive Director. Aarthi joined in 2021 with a mission to strengthen SPCA’s capability, knowledge and skills while serving a fulfilling life in animal welfare.
Aarthi Sankar — the Executive Director of The Society for Prevention of Cruelty against Animals (SPCA).
Aarthi shared on why she chose to pursue this career, “Witnessing the animals’ vulnerability and the challenges they face in society ignited a desire within me to contribute to their well-being.” She recalled her first visit to SPCA and her interaction with an adorable puppy, Rumba.
“Seeing the tireless efforts of the SPCA team in caring for animals like Rumba, who had experienced hardships, touched my heart,” said Aarthi, with a warm smile. Thus, when the opportunity to work at SPCA came, Aarthi wholeheartedly embraced it.
““Every animal deserves compassion, care, and a chance to live a fulfilling life.””
The SPCA team posing with puppies the shelter has fostered.
Being the executive director of one of the biggest animal welfare centres in Singapore is no easy feat however as this job comes with its own set of responsibilities and hurdles. Aarthi must provide strategic leadership and direction to the organisation while overseeing the day-to-day operations.
Aarthi’s broad range of responsibilities does not just end there as there is much more to her job, such as taking care of her team, securing funding and resources and conducting thorough investigation of reported cases. However, her profound love for animals continues to be the driving force behind her unwavering passion for this job.
One of the many loving animals up for adoption.
Working in animal welfare presents both its hurdles and payoffs rather quickly and intensely. “One of the most significant challenges is the emotional strain that comes with witnessing animal suffering,” Aarthi said as she recalled the distressing situations she faces daily.
SPCA annually requires approximately SGD $4,000,000 to sustain all their services and operate as a shelter that cares for over 200 unwanted, abused or abandoned animals every month. Other vital services include Singapore’s only community animal clinic, round-the-clock emergency rescues, investigations, adoption programmes and sterilisations for community animals.
A veterinarian staff taking care of a cat
On the other hand, there are rewards of working in animal welfare.
“Knowing that you are making a tangible difference in the lives of animals and seeing animals rescued from abusive situations, rehabilitated, and finding loving forever homes is incredibly gratifying,” said Aarthi with a genial smile on her face.
A photo of this adorable puppy that was adopted!
The resilience and determination of animals to overcome adversity inspires Aarthi to keep fighting for their rights and well-being. Additionally, the support and appreciation received from adopters, donors, and the community continue to fuel her motivation.
The SPCA volunteers goofing around with the animals :)
Aarthi’s unwavering dedication to animal welfare not only brings her fulfilment but also serves as an inspiration to others, reminding us of the profound impact that compassion and kindness can have on both animals and humans.
