It's hard to say which was the most unusual experience. I think it is very interesting working for a sanctuary that is rescuing animals. You come in extraordinary places. But experiences like releasing lion cubs into their enclosure at 3 a.m in the morning after a 30 hour drive would definitely be part of my unusual experiences. 

My work consists of running the daily management of FELIDA. So we see which special tasks have to be done with the animals, arranging vet checks or transport for the animals, taking next steps in animal training, leading construction on site, part of the project team for the renovation of FELIDA, improving the health care, education, etc. Everyday is very different and that’s exactly the reason why I love my job. But sometimes I find it hard to describe what you do on an average day. Because no day is really average!

That you are able to change an animals life and improve it. Sometimes it still feels hard to imagine that I can be blessed by saying that this is my paid job to help animals in need.

I think what is most gratifying for me being part of a project like FELIDA, is that we are really changing something. When we started at FELIDA we had 26 big cats in very bad conditions. We took over the facility that kept the animals inadequately. There was a lot to be done and the animals needed a better life. Now more than 7 years later, we are full of success stories. We developed a team that can give special care to big cats in need, we have transported 15 animals to LIONSROCK, set up a high level of training and enrichment programmes, rescued multiple animals and we are looking towards the future and see more developments in a new FELIDA. That makes me very proud to be part of this movement.

To be able to not let your emotions influence the decisions you have to make over the animals. I always try to keep looking at it professionally. For example, if we have an animal that cannot live a life that it should have. We need to make the decision for them and we can't look at that from an emotional point of view. Luckily we build up a great network of knowledge and expertise within FOUR PAWS so we can make these difficult decisions together.

I studied Wildlife & Management and Recreation & Nature management. Before my studies I worked on a ship yard as a metal worker and Welder.

To work as a team for one goal, helping the animals towards a better future.

My favourite animals where Sultan and Sayeeda. The reason being that is because I was with them from the very first moment at the border in Syria until their last here in FELIDA. Their journey was really special and I’m very proud I could be an important part in that.

I think a big change is that I cannot really plan ahead and often I change my plans due to something happening at the sanctuary or when I have to travel for work. I know they understand but sometimes I also realised it's frustrating for them.

I have a lot of hobbies/passions. I love hiking, watersports, traveling to other countries for spotting wildlife, nature photography, basically most of the things surrounding nature and wildlife.