There are so many moments in my life defined by the stray cats and dogs I have met. Be it early memories of the kittens my mother brought up to our town flat, kept warm in a shoe box, and fed with a bottle; or the dog on our street who walks a little behind (or beside) you, as if friends with every single person; or the revolving cast of cats who have somehow come to call our complex home.

There are more moments and stories than I could possibly remember. Fitting, as there are an estimated 4 million homeless cats and dogs across our beautiful country of South Africa.

I have a deep love for the SPCA, and a deep gratitude for the work they are doing to care for and home these homeless, unwanted, neglected, and abused animals.

That is why I will be braving the cold and discomfort and participating in the 2026 Kennel Sleepover!

I pledge to raise R 5 000 in support of the SPCA’s noble mission – but I cannot do it without you and your generous support.