Our Story, Our Mission
At the Animal Wellness Trust, we are dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable animals in Sri Lanka, particularly street dogs and cats. Our mission is to ensure the protection, care, and well-being of animals in need through our various initiatives.Our team is led by a group of passionate and experienced individuals from diverse backgrounds, including animal welfare, law, corporate management, international development, and psychiatry. We bring together a wealth of knowledge to support our cause and provide practical solutions for animal welfare challenges.Through our compassionate approach, we aim to create a positive impact on the lives of animals and inspire others to join us in our mission. With the support of our partners and donors, we are working towards a future where every animal has the chance to live a healthy and safe life.
Our Services
FREE sterilisation program
Our sterilisation programme is essential for controlling the dog population. By spaying and neutering, we prevent overpopulation, reduce the spread of diseases, and promote healthier, happier lives for dogs in our care.
Vaccination program
Our vaccination program is vital to safeguarding the health of dogs in our care. With the rise of preventable diseases, it’s crucial to provide dogs with proper vaccinations to protect them from illnesses and ensure their long-term well-being.
Daily feeding for our street furries
Our feeding programme provides vital meals to dogs in the local community. For many of these dogs, this is the only meal they receive each day, offering them much-needed nutrition and improving their chances of survival.
FOUNDERS
DR KRISHANTHI RONDON FUENTES
Former senior executive, UNESCO headquarters, Paris and UNICEF offices in New York, Vietnam and Liberia. Author of several books and an animal welfare advocate.
MR HECTOR RONDON FUENTES
Consultant and former senior executive of various United Nations’ Agencies.
DIRECTORS
DR DEBORAH WYBURN
Australian international development consultant working with the ADB, World Bank, DFAT (formerly AusAID), BRAC and the British Council Resident in Sri Lanka for more than 20 years.
DR MAITHRI AMERESEKERE
A Clinical Associate Professor in Psychiatry at the Boston University School of Medicine (BUCASM) and Director of Women’s Mental Health at Boston Medical Center and BUCASM, Dr. Ameresekere is a psychiatrist with specialized expertise in post-traumatic stress disorder. Daughter of the founder of Animal Wellness Trust Sri Lanka, she has a deep commitment to the welfare of Sri Lanka’s street dogs and cats, drawing on both her medical knowledge and her compassion to advocate for animal care and support the Trust’s vision of providing safe, nurturing environments for animals in need.
MS. SANNI KAARINA AALTO
With a strong foundation in banking and experience in planning and communications with the European Union Regional Development Fund in Finland, Sanni brings a versatile skill set to Animal Wellness Trust Sri Lanka. Her background spans administration, development, and communications, gained through diverse roles in Finland and internationally, including the tourism and hotel industry. Passionate about animal welfare, Sanni also volunteers with Emmaus Finland, where she served on the board for three years.
MS. SONALI RANASINGHE
With a successful career as a Senior Manager in a prominent private corporation, Ms. Ranasinghe offers valuable expertise and strategic vision to Animal Wellness Trust Sri Lanka. A committed advocate for animal welfare, she actively supports the Trust’s mission to safeguard and improve the lives of vulnerable animals across the country.
MS. SAMADARA MAMPITIY
An Attorney-at-Law, Notary Public, and Company Secretary with over two decades of specialized experience in corporate law, real estate law and company secretarial practice. Bringing a unique legal perspective to Animal Wellness Trust Sri Lanka. Her dedication to animal welfare aligns with the Trust’s commitment to providing essential care and protection for animals in need.