My name is Jacqui Martheze, and my life’s calling is animal welfare. Through my leadership at Woodrock Animal Rescue, one of South Africa’s leading pro-life, non-profit shelters, I have dedicated myself to being a voice for the voiceless and to changing how people and communities engage with animal welfare.

Woodrock Animal Rescue is more than a shelter. While our core mission is to rescue, rehabilitate, and rehome vulnerable animals, our vision stretches far beyond that. We are committed to education, outreach, and innovation, creating lasting impact not only for animals but for people too. From our Medicare Clinic, which provides critical veterinary care, to our community outreach programs in under-resourced areas, Woodrock Pop-Pups adoption drives, and the Woodrock Cat Café, every initiative is built to uplift, educate, and inspire. Our Paws @ Work program, which introduces therapy animals into corporate wellness spaces, is another example of how we merge animal welfare with mental health—an area in which few have ever ventured before.

What makes my leadership different is that I believe in true collaboration. In animal rescue, leadership has historically been fragmented, with organisations working in silos. My vision has always been to build bridges, not walls. I want everyone in the sector to succeed, because together we can achieve far more for the animals who depend on us.

My work is driven not by competition, but by integrity, unity, and the belief that the greater good must always come first. I am also deeply committed to empowering the next generation of leaders. Our youth are the future custodians of both our society and our animals. It is vital that they are educated on what it means to lead with honesty, compassion, and purpose. Leadership is not about power; it is about responsibility, service, and lifting others up. I want to play a role in shaping a generation of leaders who will carry animal welfare forward with vision and integrity.

I believe I was nominated for the Jewish Achiever Awards because my work represents more than animal rescue. It is about redefining leadership in a sector where it has long been absent, about uniting people from all walks of life—corporates, schools, children, the elderly—to engage with animals and discover the healing, grounding, and joy they bring. It is about using animal welfare as a platform for education, mental health, and social upliftment.

If I were to be chosen as a winner, I would hope the judges see in me someone who leads with integrity, resilience, and wholehearted purpose.

This recognition would not be for me alone; it would shine a light on animal welfare and on the importance of giving second chances to those who cannot speak for themselves. Above all, it would highlight the role of leadership rooted in compassion—something I strive to live every day.

My vision for the future—for myself, for Woodrock Animal Rescue, and for South Africa—is rooted in education, empowerment, and compassion. Above all, I believe our youth are the key to lasting change.

Through Woodrock’s volunteer program and our Pop-Pup initiatives, I want to empower young people to step into leadership roles in animal welfare.

They are our future, and by teaching them the values of integrity, responsibility, and compassion, we ensure that animal welfare in South Africa is not only sustained but grows stronger with each generation.

For Woodrock, my vision is to end the stigma around rescue animals and to shift mindsets from “buying” to “adopting.” Every animal deserves a chance, and by inspiring South Africans to choose adoption, we not only save lives but create a culture of kindness. A crucial part of this vision is tackling overpopulation through sterilisation. Sterilisation is the single most effective tool we have to break the cycle of suffering. It prevents unwanted litters, reduces the strain on shelters, and creates more responsible communities. My dream is to see every household in Gauteng—and beyond—understanding and embracing the importance of sterilising their pets.

Another area close to my heart is mental health. Animals have a profound impact on our wellbeing, and through programs like Paws @ Work, I want to bring this healing power into more corporate spaces. These initiatives not only provide comfort and connection but also educate employees and larger audiences about the transformative role animals play in our lives and the value of rescue.

Looking ahead, I want Woodrock to deepen and expand its outreach into under-resourced communities. Education on responsible pet ownership, combined with access to sterilisation and basic veterinary care, has the power to break cycles of neglect and suffering. By reaching more families in disadvantaged areas, we can uplift communities while protecting the animals who live alongside them.

Ultimately, my vision is for a South Africa where animals are respected, protected, and valued as part of society. A future where adoption is celebrated, where sterilisation is the norm, and where the next generation of leaders carries this mission forward with passion and purpose.