“Animals can’t speak for themselves, but they feel everything. We owe it to them to stand up and protect them, especially when they’re taken from the wild and forced to suffer.” – Sandeep S
Sandeep was just a young boy when he was first exposed to the harsh realities of society, being deeply disturbed by the sight of a monkey being used for entertainment. That moment sparked a journey that would one day see him leading operations at one of India’s largest bear rescue centres. With a deep resolve to fight for wild animals and dedicate his life to their care and protection, his path into wildlife conservation has been nothing short of inspiring.
With over six and a half years of being associated with Wildlife SOS, Sandeep now leads as the Operations Manager at Wildlife SOS’s Bannerghatta Bear Rescue Centre (BBRC) in Bangalore, bringing structure, energy, and heart to the daily functioning of the centre.
Originally a Computer Science graduate and an Engineering diploma holder, Sandeep’s career began in the corporate world. But his love and concern for animals since childhood led him to pivot towards a path of purpose for their conservation. What began as a volunteering initiative soon evolved into a full-time commitment with Wildlife SOS: first as an Office Assistant at our sloth bear centre in Bannerghatta to now holding a leadership role managing a diverse team of caregivers, veterinarians, maintenance staff, and cooks for the bears.
Whether planning logistics or supporting the Rapid Response Unit at BBRC, every day brings fresh challenges and opportunities for growth for Sandeep. Let’s get to know more about his inspiring journey that finds its roots in passion and commitment.
Wildlife: what does this word mean for you, and what got you interested in it?
I’ve been passionate about wildlife since childhood. That early love for animals led me to start volunteering at animal shelters, where I found a deep sense of purpose. With the support of my family, I made the bold decision to switch from a corporate career to one focused on wildlife conservation. It’s been a fulfilling path, allowing me to follow my dreams and contribute meaningfully to protecting our planet’s biodiversity.
When did you realise that wildlife is in danger and that you need to work to conserve them?
I believe my journey began in childhood, when I witnessed the brutal act of a ‘dancing’ monkey. I was stunned to see how such a wild, intelligent creature could be tamed and forced to perform. That moment deeply affected me — it made me realise that I had to stand up for animals like that monkey, and for all other animals who suffer in silence. Since then, my passion for wildlife and commitment to their protection has only grown stronger.
How did you get involved with Wildlife SOS? And how has your journey been with Wildlife SOS thus far?
I began my journey with Wildlife SOS as a volunteer, driven by a deep passion for animal welfare and conservation. Over five years of volunteering, I immersed myself in various aspects of wildlife rescue and rehabilitation. Eventually, I joined the Bannerghatta Bear Rescue Centre (BBRC) as an Office Assistant. Over time, I took on greater responsibilities — working across accounts, management, project coordination, and providing day-to-day operational support to the team. My dedication and hands-on experience led me to my current role as Operations Manager at BBRC, where I continue to contribute toward the rescue, care, and protection of wildlife.
Operations is actually one of the most crucial pillars in this line of work. What responsibilities does your role include?
My role as Operations Manager at BBRC involves a wide range of responsibilities — from team building and planning daily routines for staff, to assisting the rescue and rapid response unit. I work closely with team members, animal caregivers, and the management team to ensure smooth day-to-day operations. Every day brings new challenges, unexpected situations, and valuable learning experiences. This dynamic environment not only tests my skills, but also fuels my passion for wildlife conservation and animal welfare.
Who is your conservation role model and how does the person inspire you?
I’ve always been a fan of the Colombian singer Shakira, not just for her music, but for her incredible work as an activist. She has long been an advocate for philanthropy, and is also known for her strong campaigns for environment awareness and how climate change is impacting the world gravely. Seeing global figures use their platform with a purpose encourages me to make small but meaningful shifts in my own life.
Any memorable moments while working with Wildlife SOS that you’d like to share with us?
I started as a volunteer, assisting caregivers with feeding and helping vets in their daily routines. One of the most memorable moments in my early journey was rescuing a baby squirrel, whom I named ‘Dua’, which means ‘hope’ in English. I hand-raised her with care, gradually training her to adapt to the environment of my garden. Eventually, I was able to release her back into the wild — a moment that remains one of my favorites and a constant reminder of why I chose this path.
What is the vision you have for the future of wildlife conservation?
My vision aligns with Wildlife SOS’s mission: to be a voice for the voiceless, to protect and preserve as many species as possible, and to continue serving Mother Nature with dedication and compassion. I believe every small act of care and conservation makes a difference, and I am committed to contributing toward a world where wildlife can thrive in harmony with humanity.
Ready to experience a life-changing opportunity and make a difference? Get in touch with us! To volunteer at Wildlife SOS’s Bannerghatta Bear Rescue Centre and learn more about the rescued sloth bears under our care, connect with us at visit@wildlifesos.org. You can also make a donation towards their upkeep. Together, we can create a lasting impact and keep the magic of nature and its residents alive!
Feature image: Hemant Chakma / Wildlife SOS
