The World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) has announced Dr Gemma Campling as the recipient of this year’s 2024 Future Leader Award.
Dr. Gemma Campling, CEO and Founder of Worldwide Vets, has made remarkable strides in veterinary care across the globe, with the award recognising her significant impact on veterinary medicine and training, her commitment to animal welfare, and her outstanding leadership in the field, particularly in developing countries.
Dr. Ginger Templeton, a consultant and small animal practitioner who nominated Dr. Campling for this award, said emphasised her impactful work.
“While her work on the front lines in Ukraine is attention-grabbing, what is perhaps most important is that she has intentionally positioned this work to fuel sustainability in local vet care and local employment while offering free services to those in need.”
Dr. Campling has devoted her career to improving animal health and welfare in challenging environments such as conflict zones.
Her extensive experience includes frontline veterinary outreach for both animals and owners affected by the war in Ukraine, community outreach and sterilisation programs in Thailand and India, and high caseload equine practice in Egypt, among other significant contributions.
Markus Hegen, the chairman of the German charity Tiernothilfe, who worked alongside Dr Campling on animal sterilization missions in Ukraine, said she was a perfect candidate for the award.
“Her historical track record, current work, and future goals are tightly aligned with the focus of this award… she is always looking for ways to reach more animals despite challenging working conditions on the frontline.”
Dr Campling also runs Worldwide Vets, which she set up just after qualifying, to help other veterinary students and graduates gain clinical experience while helping animals and charities needing volunteers.
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