Equipping animal advocates with the knowledge, skills and connections to advance animals’ legal rights worldwide.

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About ICARE

ICARE equips animal advocates to turn legal and policy opportunities into meaningful change for animals.

Since launching in October 2024, we have supported more than 270 advocates and reached people in 100 countries through our training, research, and free resources. Our first e-book has been downloaded over 1,000 times.

Through training, open-access resources, and advocacy, we help build a stronger, more connected global animal advocacy movement equipped to challenge animal exploitation, advance legal and policy change for animals, and transform our food systems. We work towards a world where all sentient beings hold enforceable legal rights and are free from exploitation.

Learn with us, collaborate with us, or help us equip more advocates to make lasting change happen.

Our Story
Annual Report 2025
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Our impact

Since early 2025:

270+ animal advocates supported

4.94/5 rating for our latest CIARL live course (2nd edition)

150+ free resources available for animal advocates

11 free online seminars & lectures organised

100 countries reached

Free open-access resource library

1,000+ live attendees

Become an Advocatalyst and support our long-term impact

150+ alums connected through ARVAN

€15,000+ in scholarship support awarded

1,000+ e-book downloads (Key Concepts for Animal Rights Law)

4.85–5/5 rated events, with most respondents likely to use what they learned

Equity-centred scholarships and accessible learning

Our Mission

ICARE strengthens the animal advocacy movement by equipping advocates and allied practitioners with specialist knowledge, practical skills and connections to turn concrete legal and policy opportunities into effective change that advances animals' rights and helps end their exploitation.

A young fox standing on its hind legs in a forest with sunlight filtering through the trees.

Our Vision

A world where all sentient beings hold enforceable legal rights and are free from exploitation.

Our Programmes

What People Are Saying

Join a global community of animal advocates learning how to use law and policy more effectively for animals. ICARE’s courses combine rigorous animal rights theory, legal knowledge, and practical advocacy skills, and have been highly rated by participants across our live and on-demand programmes.

  • “My experience with ICARE has been truly impactful. The programme combines solid thinking with practical tools through a thoughtful mix of lectures, readings, and interactive discussions. What I valued most was how it provided me with strong foundations in argumentation and a clear journey through different animal advocacy theories. I would highly recommend ICARE to anyone looking to grow as a more effective and thoughtful advocate for animals. The team’s integrity, expertise, and commitment make it an outstanding learning experience.”

    — Shammy Coello Jairala, Managing Director Latam, Sinergia Animal (Chile) — Former course participant (Summer course 2025, Bridging Animal Rights Theory and Practice)

  • “My experience with ICARE has been deeply enriching, both in expanding my understanding of non-human animal rights and in reshaping how I approach animal protection. The Contemporary Issues in Animal Rights Law (CIARL) course is thoughtfully designed to challenge prevailing legal paradigms, inspire meaningful change for non-human animals, and foster a dynamic and inclusive space for dialogue among advocates, researchers, and practitioners. A highlight of the course was learning directly from leading experts — individuals I might not have otherwise had the opportunity to engage with. Their depth of knowledge and unique perspectives added immense value to each session. Marine, the Founder and Executive Director for ICARE, along with the broader ICARE team, provided exceptional support throughout. Their guidance and constructive feedback significantly enhanced my learning experience. I highly recommend ICARE to anyone dedicated to advancing justice for animals. Their integrity, expertise, and unwavering commitment make them a powerful force in the animal protection movement!”

    — Michaela Tafani-du Preez, Attorney, Animal Law Reform South Africa (South Africa) — Former course participant (CIARL live course, 1st ed.)

  • “Participating in the 'Contemporary Issues in Animal Rights Law' (CIARL) course was a profoundly enriching experience. Thanks to the scholarship, I had the privilege of receiving top-tier instruction alongside colleagues from both the Global North and South with extensive backgrounds in animal advocacy. We attended lectures delivered by prestigious scholars on the most pressing current issues in animal law. One aspect I particularly valued was the opportunity to apply our knowledge through assignments and presentations, which received rigorous feedback. I highly recommend ICARE for embodying academic excellence and for providing young professionals from the Global South with the opportunity to strengthen our work. As a lawyer, the knowledge acquired at CIARL has significantly broadened my perspective on legal advocacy opportunities, improving the quality of my legal drafting for animal defense and my production of academic material. The academic outreach and training conducted by ICARE are invaluable to the global animal law movement. Furthermore, I am well aware of Marine Lercier’s academic work and her dedication to the movement. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity and hope to have proven worthy of such support.”

    — Isaac Aarón de Santiago Peña Lobato, Co-founder, Derecho Animal en Perú (Perú) — Former course participant (CIARL live course, 2nd ed.)

  • “My experience with ICARE has been genuinely transformative. Before I joined the programme, I struggled to find an accessible animal law course, both financially and in terms of format. Most options were expensive or required in-person attendance, which was not practical for me. ICARE’s virtual classes made participation possible, and their need-based scholarship removed a significant barrier. That support alone reflected their genuine commitment to widening access to animal law education. The course itself exceeded every expectation. The readings were thoughtful, relevant, and carefully curated, and the structure of each session, especially the thirty-minute discussion at the end, created space for deep reflection and intelligent conversation. The diversity of participants enriched the learning experience even further, as each person brought a unique perspective rooted in different academic, professional, and cultural backgrounds. My favourite lesson was the session on feminist approaches to animal welfare, which challenged me intellectually and pushed me to re-examine familiar issues through a more nuanced lens. Overall, the programme was both stimulating and grounding, and it has influenced how I think about the intersection of law, justice, and advocacy. I would wholeheartedly recommend this course to anyone seeking an accessible, rigorous, and truly engaging introduction to animal law.”

    — Nduta Muhindi, Lawyer (Kenya) — Former course participant (Summer course 2025, Bridging Animal Rights Theory and Practice)

  • “I really enjoyed the CIARL course and found it very useful as an environmental lawyer.”

    — Robin Happel, Environmental Lawyer (U.S.A.) — Former course participant (CIARL on-demand course)

  • “Participating in ICARE's course was a truly enriching experience. The quality of the content, the interdisciplinary approach, and the strong ethical commitment provided me with powerful tools to rethink the law in a transformative way. What I appreciated the most was how the program bridges theory and practice in a meaningful and grounded way. I felt truly supported and intellectually inspired throughout the course, which challenged me to grow and contribute with purpose. I would highly recommend ICARE to anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of animal rights from a critical, empathetic, and impactful perspective. The program provided valuable tools, knowledge, and connections to engage effectively in this growing field, while also connecting me with a global community committed to building a more just world for all beings.”

    — Azul Cardozo Prieto, Global Campaign Director, The Save Movement (Uruguay) — Former course participant (CIARL live course, 1st ed.)

  • “The ICARE Contemporary Issues in Animal Rights Law (CIARL) course is an amazing course for all those looking to get into the field. Presented by an array of global experts, discussing interesting topics including the history and evolution of animal law, the legal theory underpinning animal rights and legal advocacy and political representation of animals, and so much more. Each session brought unique and thought-provoking discussions and debates about animal law and its developments. Excellently organised and facilitated by the ICARE team, headed by Marine Lercier, this course has broadened my understanding of this field and has helped shape my ongoing research and work in the field. I would highly recommend this course to anybody with an interest in learning more about animal law, as well as those already in the field, to broaden their knowledge as we continue our collective fight for a world where animals have the highest levels of freedoms and protection.”

    — Cheslyn Ceaser, Senior Legal Researcher, Animal Law Reform South Africa (South Africa) — Former course participant (CIARL live course, 1st ed.)

  • “The training course provided by ICARE is playing a significant role in my advocacy career in Liberia. It increases my understanding of animal rights law. During the training, I gained knowledge of drafting policy documents, such as MOUs and policy statements, as well as case commentary and how to conduct debates and analyse issues related to animal rights. I learned the difference between animal rights and animal welfare. I learned that animals have rights and are part of political systems, but do not have the capacity to speak for themselves or be held legally responsible for their actions. I gained knowledge in case briefing and public presentation. Before then , I had little and limited insight or knowledge in these areas. In conclusion, this program plays a crucial role in my work and career. I am asking ICARE to provide additional training in animal rights laws, research methods, and other related issues about animal advocacy.”

    — Alexander Togbah Wornie, Animal Mirror Liberia (Liberia) — Former course participant (CIARL live course, 2nd ed.)

  • “The quality of the course is truly among the best I’ve experienced. ICARE managed the program very professionally, and Professor Siemieniec is not only highly knowledgeable in her field but also incredibly patient and kind with every student. She took the time to answer each question thoughtfully and made sure everyone gained meaningful insights from every lesson. The community has been another highlight. Students support one another with genuine understanding and kindness. I would absolutely recommend ICARE to anyone interested in learning more about animal ethics.”

    — Chih-Wei Deng (Taiwan) — Former course participant (Summer course 2025, Bridging Animal Rights Theory and Practice)

  • “The Contemporary Issues in Animal Rights Law course was an intellectually stimulating and genuinely enjoyable experience, offering the opportunity to study animal rights law and research important topics that are often not explored in traditional postgraduate programs. The coursework deepened my understanding of the complexities of animal legislation and litigation, while also strengthening my theoretical and practical legal skills—skills that I can apply well beyond this field. What I appreciated most about ICARE’s course was its thoughtful structure, the depth of discussion and the commitment to exploring contemporary and challenging issues in international animal legislation. The instructors and guest speakers delivered meaningful and engaging lectures, creating an academic environment that was both supportive and demanding in the best possible way. I am especially grateful to Marine Lercier for organizing such an excellent course and for providing constructive feedback in a supportive manner. I would highly recommend ICARE to anyone seeking rigorous, forward-thinking education in animal rights and ethics. The experience has had a lasting impact on my academic and professional development and I look forward to building on the knowledge and skills I gained through this course.”

    — Rozana Tsiknaki, MSc Student in Clinical Animal Behavior (Greece) — Former course participant (CIARL live course, 2nd ed.)

  • “My engagement with the International Centre for Animal Rights and Ethics (ICARE) has been both enlightening and influential. The initiatives and activities of ICARE have shown a clear commitment to the promotion of animal welfare and ethical food systems, especially in their support for animal rights advocates and organizations operating in difficult environments. What I find most valuable about ICARE is the quality of their educational programs, seminars, and advocacy tools. These resources are essential in offering knowledge and strategic information that can enhance the capacity of animal welfare advocates to advocate for the humane treatment of animals and effect policy change. The initiatives of the organization help to fill the gap between ethics and practice. ICARE’s collaboration and mentorship strategy is also something that is praiseworthy. The staff of ICARE are helpful, knowledgeable, and truly committed to empowering animal rights advocates worldwide. My engagement with ICARE has helped to open my eyes to the world of animal rights advocacy and has reinforced the need to integrate ethics, policy, and community engagement into our work. I would highly recommend ICARE to individuals and organizations interested in learning more about animal rights and welfare issues while also gaining access to a network”

    — Abdul-Rahman Safian, WACPAW (Ghana) — Former course participant (CIARL live course, 2nd ed.)

  • “The CIARL on-demand course provided me with a clearer and more structured understanding of animal rights law, particularly regarding the distinction between rights-based legal frameworks and welfare-based approaches. Before taking the course, I was already engaged with animal-related legal and ethical issues, but often in a fragmented way. The CIARL course helped me consolidate key theoretical foundations and critically assess the limitations of current legal systems from a non-anthropocentric perspective. After completing the course, I gained greater conceptual clarity and confidence to further develop my academic interests. The course encouraged me to initiate an academic article focused on animal rights law while also engaging with green criminology and environmental law, particularly in relation to green crimes and systemic harms against non-human animals. This interdisciplinary perspective helped me better understand how animal law and environmental criminality intersect within broader legal and advocacy frameworks. Overall, the course strengthened my ability to analyze animal rights theories, apply rights-based legal reasoning, and think more strategically about legal advocacy and future research. I consider CIARL a valuable academic experience for anyone interested in animal rights law and ethics.”

    — Bárbara Gaetani, Veterinary Medicine and Forensic Investigator (Brazil) — Former course participant (CIARL on-demand course)

  • “I cannot recommend this course enough - not just for legal professionals, but for activists who are serious about understanding the political landscape which shape the fate of animals. It is an intensive, challenging course which offers both practical experience and in-depth theoretical work. What I appreciated most of all is the time the educators took to provide you with extensive, constructive feedback - something I don't get from my educators who are part of my legal degree. While doing the course, I felt small, but I emerged on the other side feeling like a giant thanks to the guidance and patience not just from those who designed and teach this course, but from my fellow classmates as well. Overall, I am deeply inspired and feel armed well for the future and my role as an advocate for justice!”

    — Nikki Botha, Law student (South Africa) — Former course participant (CIARL live course, 2nd ed.)

  • “I came across the CIARL course by chance and joined without high expectations. However, within the first few weeks, I realised how much I still had to learn about animal rights law, advocacy, and their connection to animal welfare science, my current area of specialisation. I am sincerely grateful for the scholarship offered by ICARE, which provided me with the opportunity to engage with leading experts and connect with passionate individuals from around the world. I highly recommend this course to anyone interested in deepening their understanding of animal rights law and striving to make a meaningful, positive impact within their community. Good luck and many hugs from Romania!”

    — Andrei-Sebastian Csiplo, PhD candidate in Animal Welfare Science (Romania) — Former course participant (CIARL live course, 1st ed.)

  • “Attending the course ‘Bridging Animal Rights Theory & Practice’ was a fantastic opportunity to gain a comprehensive overview of current debates in animal rights philosophy. Dr Paulina Siemieniec presented material that is often challenging to grasp in a clear and accessible manner, leading to engaging and thought-provoking discussions.”

    — Marie Kolb, Law student (Germany) — Former course participant (Summer course 2025, Bridging Animal Rights Theory and Practice)

  • “It was a pleasure to lecture on the ICARE course. The students were engaged and we managed to have a wonderful discussion about animal rights and personhood. I look forward to contributing to the course again in the future.”

    — Visa Kurki, Professor of Jurisprudence (Finland) — Course lecturer (CIARL live course, 1st and 2nd ed.)

  • “I participated in the ICARE course on Contemporary Issues in Animal Rights Law, and it was an amazing experience. I gained in-depth knowledge of legal concepts and how to utilise them to advance the animal cause; most importantly, I drew real-life examples and inspiration that I can implement in my own advocacy and academic work. Being part of this course, with such a diverse and international participation, felt like being part of a true community of animal advocates. I would recommend this course!”

    — Iro Tsarmpopoulou-Fokianou, Researcher (Greece) — Former course participant (CIARL live course, 1st ed.)

  • “This course offers an excellent opportunity to learn about the theory and practice of animal rights. As one of the lecturers, I was honored to share a space with some of the most well-known and respected scholars in the fields of animal ethics and animal law. Marine put a lot of effort, diligence, and professionalism into organizing the course, and then monitoring its development - patiently advising the students, and reading their materials.”

    — Pablo Magaña Fernández, Postdoctoral Researcher (Spain) — Course lecturer (CIARL live course, 1st ed.)

  • “As a course lecturer, I want to express how well this course has been put together!”

    — Elien Verniers, Postdoctoral researcher (Belgium) — Course lecturer (CIARL live course, 1st and 2nd ed.)

  • “Completing the Contemporary Issues in Animal Rights Law course with ICARE has been an incredibly positive and rewarding experience. The quality of the programme is excellent - thoughtfully designed with robust, real-world application. Each week, the readings, resources, and lectures were both practical and inspiring. I would highly recommend ICARE to anyone looking to deepen their understanding of animal rights law, expand their impact, and work alongside dedicated advocates who truly care. I'm looking forward to embedding what I've learned into my everyday work for the advancement of animal freedom.”

    — Elizabeth Davenport, Animal Aid (UK) — Former course participant (CIARL live course, 2nd ed.)

  • “The live ICARE course was of exceptional impact with a goldstar cast of lecturers from across the globe. The team balanced law and ethics in a unique and creative way whilst providing opportunities to upskill in digital and other complementary areas. I highly recommend ICARE offerings to those seeking to have an impact for animals. My engagement with them has fostered my commitment to animal rights law as I take the next steps in my career to advocate for animals.”

    — Rebecca Emerson-Keeler, Independent consultant pivoting into animal rights (France and UK) — Former course participant (CIARL live course, 2nd ed.)

  • “It was a joy and honor to present the class on Animal Rights as a Social Justice Movement. It's a rare and special feeling to be together in the same (virtual) room with people from all over the world who care deeply about animals. The students were thoughtful, engaged, and introspective: everyone was eager to share their unique perspectives and learn from their classmates' insights and experiences. Being an animal advocate, animal law student, or animal law educator can be an isolating experience at times, but this class was an antidote to that. The solidarity between everyone in the class reached through our screens, traveled the globe, and lifted us up. Thank you, ICARE, for creating such a powerful and supportive learning space and community for people who care about animals!”

    — Iselin Gambert, Faculty co-director, GW Law Animal Legal Education Initiative (U.S.A) — Course lecturer (CIARL live course, 1st and 2nd ed.)

  • “I had the privilege of participating in the first online course on ‘Contemporary Issues in Animal Rights Law,’ and it was a truly enriching experience. The course offered a comprehensive overview of the past, present and future of Animal Rights Law, while fostering an inspiring and intellectually stimulating learning environment. What made the learning journey especially engaging for me were the interactive elements, including thought-provoking assignments, dynamic class activities, and a highly rewarding Moot Court exercise that brought theory to life. ICARE’s mission addresses one of the most urgent and timely challenges of our time. The creation of this much-needed space for education, reflection, and advocacy is both commendable and long overdue. I’d recommend this course to anyone curious about Animal Rights Law, whether you’re just starting out or looking to deepen and update your understanding.”

    — Marie Kolb, Law student (Germany) — Former course participant (CIARL live course, 1st ed.)

Meet our Team of Volunteers

  • Founder & Executive Director
    Director of Legal Research & Advocacy

    Marine is the Founder and Executive Director of the International Centre for Animal Rights and Ethics (ICARE) and the Founder and Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of Animal Rights Law. She is also a Board Member of the Culture and Animals Foundation (CAF).

    She advocates for the interconnected causes of human and animal rights and is committed to driving systemic, structural, and lasting change for all sentient beings. As a PhD candidate in Global Animal Law and a Researcher at the Autonomous University of Barcelona, she combines academic research in animal rights law with practical applications to advance legal frameworks that protect the welfare and rights of animals.

    After becoming vegan over 10 years ago, Marine changed careers to focus on animal rights law and advocacy, graduating with high honours from a Master’s in Animal Law and Society at the Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB). After completing several internships at animal advocacy NGOs, she returned to the UAB to pursue her doctoral research, where she has taught courses in Animal Law and Roman Law, and is regularly invited to lecture on Animal Law. In addition, she completed the Cambridge Centre for Animal Rights Law Lecturers Workshop. She has also organised and judged speed moot courts on human rights and animal rights, and has coordinated numerous international and national academic conferences, symposia, roundtables, and book talks, both in person and online.

    Her doctoral research pioneers the concept of ‘Animal Labour Law’©, exploring avenues to grant labour rights to non-human animal workers. Using racehorses as a case study, she aims to address gaps in their protection and safeguard racehorses’ fundamental interests, including through a legal right to retirement beyond their racing careers. Marine has published research articles, book chapters, book reviews, op-eds, blog posts, and working papers and contributed to research reports in various languages.

    Marine is recognised for her collaborative spirit, intellectual rigour,hard work, and reliability. She often provides guidance and collaborates with fellow educators, researchers, legal professionals, advocates, and NGOs, demonstrating a commitment to helping others succeed in the movement for the benefit of animals. For the past decade, she has also volunteered her time and skills with several animal advocacy organisations and academic projects.

    She has been a Junior Fellow (2020-2022) and a Fellow (2022-2023) of the Animals & Biodiversity programme, which she launched at the Global Research Network Think Tank. There, she contributed her expertise to a community of like-minded individuals, mentored Junior Fellows, and designed and managed various successful projects.

    She also ran for the Animalist Party in France's parliamentary elections (2022) and played a key role in revising their national and European political programmes, highlighting her dedication to legal, institutional, and policy reforms for animal rights.

  • Content Creator for Education and Learning

    Marissa brings over a decade of experience in education leadership, learning and development, and content strategy across mission-driven non-profits and purpose-led organisations. She is passionate about developing and delivering impactful learning experiences that empower people, inspire action, and drive measurable and meaningful results. 

    She holds a BA in Fashion Marketing and Management from the Illinois Institute of Art in Chicago and completed her internship at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago (MCA).

    As a devoted advocate for veganism, Marissa is driven by leveraging her expertise to inspire compassion for animals and advance legislation that strengthens animal welfare protections.

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  • Online Events Coordinator

    Shreya is a dedicated animal welfare advocate whose vegan journey has fuelled her commitment to creating a world where animals are respected, not consumed.

    Drawing on her background in marketing and events management, she channels her professional skills to strengthen the movement.

    She believes effective outreach and community-building are powerful catalysts for transforming compassion into lasting impact.

  • MEL

    Thomas is a mission-driven analyst who specialises in finding actionable insights within complex datasets. His professional journey spans 7+ years of leading strategic forecasting, market research and analytics for global healthcare companies.

    Driven by his passion for environmental and animal protection, he is now committed to leveraging his expertise to create a lasting impact within the movement. In his role as a Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) Volunteer, he looks forward to helping ICARE strengthen its impact measurement and translate data into clear insights that drive its programmes and strategy.

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  • Digital Engagement Analyst

    Gweimen Fen is a freelance researcher, academic tutor, and digital content creator with a strong interdisciplinary focus spanning artificial intelligence, STEM education, public health, ecology, and societal justice.

    With a background in biology and a passion for curriculum development and inclusive education, Gweimen brings a unique perspective to his work—one that bridges the gap between science, technology, and advocacy.

    He hails from the Nok ancestry—one of Nigeria's oldest civilisations—and is currently based in Abuja. His work is deeply influenced by a sense of collective responsibility and a reverence for both human and non-human life.

    Gweimen believes that fairness, justice, and sustainability must extend to animals, plants, and the environment to ensure true progress. At ICARE, he brings his experience in digital communication and community engagement to support the movement for animal rights and ethical living.

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  • Legal Researcher, Animals in Disasters

    Valéria is a Brazilian attorney currently pursuing an LL.M. in Environmental and Energy Law at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. Passionate about animal protection, she has been actively involved in rescuing animals from mistreatment in her home country and has volunteered with wildlife in Namibia.

    In addition to her practical experience, Valéria has also contributed to the academic field by writing articles on Animal Law. During her LL.M., she has been deepening her studies to strengthen environmental and animal protection through legal mechanisms, combining her legal expertise with a commitment to sustainability to drive positive impact.

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  • Researcher, Political Representation of Animals

    Thalia Puente Fernandez is a law student with a passion for social impact and community building.

    She has experience creating digital content, running campaigns, and supporting organisations that align with her values.

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  • Researcher, Political Representation of Animals

    Madelon is an MA graduate in Human Rights and Democratisation at the Global Campus of Human Rights. During her studies, she gained experience in the fields of Environmental Law, the Rights of Nature, and Animal Law.

    She is also deeply committed to animal welfare and animal protection, and is especially interested in the topic of legal representation of animals.

  • Research Assistant and Content Translator

    Ana Barcelona is a final-year law student at the Facultad de Derecho, Universidad de Buenos Aires, where she also serves as a teaching assistant for the course ‘Animals as Subjects.’

    Her academic and professional work reflects a sustained commitment to advancing legal protections for non-human animals within the Argentine legal system. At ICARE, she volunteers as a Research Assistant and Content Translator, contributing to research and translation projects centred on animal rights law.

  • Generalist

    With over six years of experience in animal advocacy at a local animal shelter and non-profit organisation, Beatrice has worked across multiple roles, including adoption services, clinic support, administrative operations, and the legal department handling animal cruelty cases. This combination of hands-on care and administrative support provided a strong foundation in practical advocacy and organisational operations.

    She later expanded her focus to farmed animal welfare through her participation in the Welfare Matters fellowship (SEAFAWF) and in various conferences addressing both farmed animal issues and broader animal advocacy topics. Now with ICARE, she supports initiatives that advance the legal recognition and protection of animal rights globally.

  • Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL)

    Joanna is a data professional and social science researcher with over six years of experience in data analysis, reporting, monitoring & evaluation, and management in international non-profit organisations. She holds a Master's in Social Experimental Psychology with a focus on research methods and advanced statistics, and has co-authored a neuropsychological study published in Scientific Reports on empathy towards outgroups. She is passionate about automations and supporting her work with AI.

    Vegan for many years, Joanna is committed to using data to drive progress toward the recognition of animal rights and the inclusion of animals in humanity's moral circle — and to ending factory farming across the globe. She volunteers as a data expert investigating animal transport, turning open data into evidence for campaigns at an investigative journalism NGO.

    At ICARE, Joanna is looking forward to strengthening impact measurement—translating data into clear insights that inform programmes and strategy.

  • Generalist

    Kalisa has a background in science, data analysis, and regulatory compliance. She has worked with animals in many capacities, from working on horse farms to rabbit rescues, and is now making a purposeful pivot to dedicate her career to animal welfare. 

    She is passionate about using science-based approaches to improve animal welfare and support more effective policies and practices. As an avid traveller, she has experienced firsthand the different ways animals are treated across cultures and countries, which has deepened her passion for animal welfare on a global scale. 

    Her connection to animals, wildlife, and the natural world has long been a source of joy and purpose, inspiring her to dedicate her work to advancing solutions that improve the lives of animals through systemic change.

  • Content Writer and Content Creator

    Jessica Masterson is a freelancewriter and researcher with an interdisciplinary focus spanning autonomy and consent, animal ethics, and AI safety. She has particular interest in the intersection between animal rights and artificial intelligence, and what a positive AI future looks like for animals. She holds postgraduate degrees from the University of Birmingham (PhD), University of Galway (MA), and the University of Limerick (MA) in philosophy, ethics, and writing.

    With 10+ years of research experience and 6+ years experience in tutoring, communications and administration, she uses her skills to work towards a better future for animals. A vegetarian since the age of 11, and vegan for over a decade, Jessica has a lifelong passion for creating a world in which the wellbeing of animals is prioritised.

  • Content Writer

    Geneva Blackmer is a doctoral researcher in the Faculty of Divinity at the University of Cambridge. She holds postgraduate degrees from Amridge University (PhD), the University of Bonn (MESt), and Athens State University (MA). 

    She has held research assistantships and visiting appointments across a range of academic and research institutions and has published on digital theology/religion, (inter)religious education, church history, and ecumenism, with a forthcoming publication on themes of ecofeminist theology. 

    Alongside her academic work, her professional background includes extensive experience in grassroots interfaith contexts, including work with organisations engaged in creation care and ecological justice. She has a longstanding interest in ecotheology, animal ethics, and religious understandings of responsibility and stewardship.

  • Research Assistant

    Brontë is a research assistant at the University of Glasgow and a longtime animal advocate. Having recently completed her Master’s in Animal Welfare Science, Ethics and Law, her current research focuses on human-dog interactions and One Health. 

    She has worked in a wide range of areas, including animal rights, veganism, and environmental conservation.

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  • Researcher, Political Representation of Animals

    Prithvi is a dedicated data scientist with a strong passion for animal rights and ethical practices. With a solid academic foundation and a commitment to social impact, he’s eager to apply his expertise in research and technology to support the recognition and protection of animals’ fundamental rights.

  • Researcher, Political Representation of Animals

    Kristina is a Research Master’s student in European Studies at Maastricht University, pursuing a double degree in Political Science at Cologne University. Her work focuses on EU fisheries governance and environmental decision-making, with particular interest in how legal norms and geopolitical interests shape policy outcomes.

    A lifelong animal lover, she has always been passionate about animal welfare. This has led her to volunteer with various organisations, including the horse rescue Progetto Islander in Italy, thereby broadening her perspective beyond academia.

  • Researcher, Political Representation of Animals

    Mia is an undergraduate Politics and International Relations student at the University of Cambridge, with a research focus spanning digital governance, gender equality, and comparative politics.

    A vegetarian since childhood on ethical grounds, she has long channelled her convictions into active work for animal welfare, including regular support for organisations such as PETA, SOI Dog Foundation, and the Brooke, and participation in the St. Andrews Ethics Cup, where she debated questions of animal ethics.

    Her academic and policy writing, including work with The Wilberforce Society and a research internship examining regulatory reform, reflects a strong grounding in legal and policy analysis, which she brings to ICARE's mission of advancing the political and legal representation of animals.

With generous support from

  • A bright orange poster with white text reading 'The Pollination Project' and illustrations of dandelion seed heads and dispersed seeds.

    https://thepollinationproject.org/

  • Logo of Craigslist Charitable Fund featuring a stylised shield with purple and green design elements and the text 'Craigslist Charitable Fund' to the right.

    http://craigslistfund.org/

  • Stylised orange geometric fox with black outlines and angular shapes, representing Manifund's logo.

    https://manifund.org/

  • Logo for Voiceless, the animal protection institute, featuring overlapping circles and the words 'Voiceless' and 'the animal protection institute' in blue text.

    https://voiceless.org.au/

  • Logo of the Stray Dog Institute featuring a stylised green 'S' and a dog silhouette, with the institute's name in black text.

    https://straydoginstitute.org/

  • https://womenfundersinar.org

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