As a Cape of Good Hope SPCA Inspector Elani Graham says she always dreamed of working with animals.
While there may be some challenges faced there are also positives as a woman working in conservation, she says.
“I always had a passion for animals since I was little and dreamed of working with wild animals and conserving them after seeing an episode about animal cruelty, specifically elephants used in circuses for human pleasure. I never realised after doing years of studying conservation ecology that the only way to combat cruelty against any animal within the law is by becoming an inspector at the SPCA.”
She adds what she loves most about her job is to make a difference and to educate pet owners.
“I love making a difference in the life of each animal I meet, even if it is in small ways, educating the owners on what is right and ways to figure out how to better the animal’s life, in turn, helping the owners as well.
“It was quite challenging going to all the different places and people, rich or poor, but in time you learn how to deal with different situations and help each animal even if it means sterilising them to prevent unwanted litters from being born.”
Graham completed her Masters in conservation ecology before training to become a qualified inspector at the SPCA.
The 30-year-old says every day is different and busy from rescuing animals to compiling dockets for criminal prosecutions.
“Every day is different with different challenges. I spend most of my time driving to and from cases, but that can change at any time with emergencies including rescues of animals stuck somewhere, helping animals that are hit by cars or injured or even compiling dockets for criminal prosecutions. You have to prioritise what is an emergency to what can wait a bit longer.”
Working as a woman in her field has its challenges such as being vulnerable to criminals and being intimidated.
“I have faced some challenges with certain men and sometimes women, thinking because I am a woman they can intimidate me or work on my emotions, which does not work at all anymore, as I also have a lot of support from my team and superiors backing me.
“I have been targeted before being held at gunpoint and a smash and grab. The thing is, you learn from those incidents and figure out what to do and what not to do,” says Graham.
She adds that anyone who has a passion for animals can work in conservation and that being a woman has its advantages.
“Anyone can do it if you have a passion for animals. I think being a female does have its perks as well, as more people tend to trust and talk to you, especially other women and children.
“The most challenging thing is how to learn to control and switch off your emotions in certain cases and just stick with the facts. The job can also be physical, so don’t be scared to ask for help if you cannot carry an animal or jump over a wall.”
