Growing up in India, I witnessed the harsh reality that strays face there. The brutality against strays is staggering—over 35 million stray dogs face daily struggles, from hunger to maltreatment in India alone. It’s heart-wrenching. Gandhi once said, “The greatness of a nation and its moral progress can be judged by the way its animals are treated." And I believe that the more helpless a creature, the more entitled it is to protection by man from the cruelty of man. These words moved me deeply and have guided my path.

Over the years, I've taken on leadership roles in various non-profits, such as AIESEC, a youth-run organization, and Teach for India. But one of the most impactful experiences was with Save Our Strays, where I ran awareness campaigns in rural parts of India about the brutality against strays and the importance of animal birth control. Back then, strays were often overlooked, and the shelter intake rate was alarmingly low. People preferred to buy from stores and sketchy breeders, ignoring the lovable strays on the streets. Spreading awareness about rescue and rehabilitation was our mission at SOS.

Life took its course, and after college, I found myself in the corporate world. But I wasn't satisfied; my heart wanted more. Eventually, I decided to pursue higher education and got into the business school at UMD. It was here that a close friend of mine adopted a cute little Chihuahua mix puppy named Tommy from Lucky Dog. Not long after my graduation, I noticed an opening in their data team and thought, “Why not use my skills for something I’m truly passionate about?”

This incredible family welcomed me with open arms, and it has been a heartwarming experience ever since. Every day, I get to use data to make a real difference in the lives of animals and the people who love them, and it has been incredibly fulfilling. I aspire to continue my work as a tech consultant within the nonprofit sector, hoping to bring positive change to animal welfare both here and back home in India.

Thanks for reading my story! Stay pawsitive and keep making a difference.