For some, fascination for wildlife is a fleeting childhood interest. For others, like Aishwarya Reddy Ravugari, it becomes a lifelong mission. Ever since she joined the Wildlife SOS team in 2021, Aishwarya has played a crucial role in supporting the organisation’s conservation efforts. As the Team Lead for Corporate and Philanthropic Partnership with Wildlife SOS, she secures vital funds and establishes long-lasting relationships with stakeholders for the care and rehabilitation of rescued animals.
Her unwavering dedication and hard work continue to make a tangible difference in the lives of rescued and rehabilitated elephants, leopards, and bears at our centres. Through her efforts, Aishwarya’s love towards wildlife has evolved into a profound commitment to make certain that animals in distress receive the protection they deserve.
What does wildlife mean to you, and what pushed you to work for wildlife?
Nature has always been my sanctuary. I grew up mesmerised by the intricate connections between animals, forests, and the environment. The more I explored, the more I understood how delicate this balance is, and how easily it can be disrupted.
Learning about habitat destruction, human-wildlife conflict, and the relentless threats animals face made me realise that I couldn’t just admire wildlife from a distance. I had to act. My passion turned into purpose, and I knew I wanted to dedicate my life to conservation.
When did you realise that wildlife is in danger and that you need to work to conserve them?
The realisation came gradually, but one defining moment was learning about the suffering of animals in captivity and the destruction of their habitats. Seeing images of elephants forced to work in harsh conditions, bears confined to small spaces, and forests disappearing at an alarming rate made me understand the urgency of conservation. It was no longer just about loving animals, it was about protecting them from cruelty and ensuring they had a future.
How did you first get involved with Wildlife SOS?
I came across Wildlife SOS while searching for ways to make a tangible impact in conservation. The organisation’s hands-on approach to rescuing and rehabilitating animals immediately resonated with me. What stood out was their commitment to long-term solutions, rescue is just the beginning; ensuring lifelong care and advocating for systemic change is the true goal. I knew I wanted to be a part of something bigger, something meaningful. Working here has been an eye-opening experience, reinforcing my belief that every effort, no matter how small, counts in the fight to protect wildlife.
What are the biggest challenges in fundraising for wildlife conservation?
Fundraising for wildlife is both challenging and rewarding. There are countless causes that demand public attention, and conservation sometimes takes a back seat. The key is making people see that wildlife protection isn’t just about saving animals, it’s about maintaining the health of ecosystems that sustain all life, including ours. Bridging that gap between awareness and action is a challenge, but one that I take on with enthusiasm.
Who inspires you in your work?
I draw inspiration from the unsung heroes of conservation — the local communities who coexist with wildlife, the caregivers who dedicate their lives to rehabilitating animals, and the frontline rescue teams who brave difficult conditions to save lives. Their resilience and selflessness remind me why this work matters. I also deeply admire my colleagues at Wildlife SOS, whether it’s the veterinarians ensuring each animal receives the best medical care or the teams working behind the scenes to keep everything running smoothly, each person plays a crucial role in our mission.
What has been one of your most memorable experiences at Wildlife SOS?
There are so many unforgettable moments, but the ones that stay with me the most are when I see an animal finally begin to heal. Witnessing an elephant take its first confident steps after years of suffering, or watching a rescued bear play freely, unburdened by its past, that’s when I know our work is making a difference. These moments are powerful reminders of why I do what I do. They fuel my determination to keep pushing forward, no matter how tough the challenges may seem.
What is your vision for the future of wildlife conservation?
I dream of a world where wildlife is not seen as a resource to exploit, but as an invaluable part of our shared existence. I want to continue advocating for better policies, stronger enforcement against wildlife crime, and greater public awareness. Conservation isn’t just about big gestures; it’s about everyday choices — choosing sustainable products, supporting ethical tourism, or even just educating oneself about the issues. Every action, no matter how small, contributes to a larger shift. My goal is to keep learning, keep growing, and keep fighting for a future where animals are treated with the respect they deserve.
With passionate individuals like Aishwarya at the forefront of our organisation, the mission to protect and conserve India’s wildlife continues to gain strength.
Want to make an impact?
Join us as a volunteer to witness and be a part of the care given to rescued animals. You can also donate towards their care. If you’d like to stay up to date with our ongoing conservation projects, subscribe for the Wildlife SOS newsletter. Together, we can drive meaningful change and help preserve the beauty of nature!
