Supporting Animal Welfare at U of T
University of Toronto Animal Welfare Association brings together students who care about animals and want to make a difference. Through education, advocacy, and community initiatives, we promote compassion, responsibility, and better welfare for animals.
About Us
The University of Toronto Animal Welfare Association (UTAWA) is a student-led organization dedicated to promoting animal welfare, raising awareness, and encouraging meaningful action within our community. We bring together students who share a passion for animals and believe that even small actions can make a difference.
Beyond education and advocacy, we work with and maintain connections with local animal rescue organizations to support animal welfare efforts in the Greater Toronto Area. Through these partnerships, we aim to provide students with opportunities to get involved in volunteering, animal rescue initiatives, fostering, and promoting responsible pet ownership and adoption.
We also strive to create a welcoming and supportive community where students can share experiences, exchange knowledge, and explore issues related to animal welfare. Through educational events, community outreach, and collaborative projects, we hope to bridge the gap between students and organizations working directly to improve animals’ lives.
At UTAWA, we believe that compassion should go beyond awareness and lead to meaningful action. Whether you have years of experience working with animals or simply want to learn how to help, everyone is welcome to be part of our community.
What We Do
Animal Rescue & Volunteering
Collaborate with local shelters and rescue organizations to provide students with opportunities to support animals in need.
Fostering & Adoption
Promote responsible adoption and foster care while helping rescue animals find loving homes.
Fundraising & Donations
Organize fundraising events and donation drives to support local animal rescue organizations.
Education & Workshops
Host workshops and guest speakers to share knowledge about animal welfare, pet care, and veterinary medicine.
Awareness & Advocacy
Raise awareness about animal welfare issues through campus events and social media campaigns.
Community Events
Bring together students who love animals through social gatherings and interactive activities.
Upcoming Events
Volunteer Day
More information coming soon.
Executive Team
Riley Wang
President
Riley is an undergraduate student studying Mathematics and Biology at the University of Toronto. She has been actively involved in animal rescue and fostering for several years. Through UTAWA, she hopes to connect students with local rescue organizations, raise awareness about animal welfare, and create more opportunities for students to make a meaningful difference in animals’ lives.
Farah Yousof
VP of Marketing
Farah has always had a special place in her heart for animals, especially her beloved cat, whom she absolutely adores! 🐈 Her love for animals inspires her passion for animal welfare and advocacy. She’s so excited to be part of a team dedicated to making a difference in the lives of animals! 🐾
Jerry Zhou
Director of Technology and Communication
Jerry is a current undergraduate student studying Economics, Mathematics, and Computer Science at U of T. He has always loved animals and is particularly fond of pet cafés (where most of his money seems to go). He is passionate about improving the lives of animals and looks forward to working toward better animal welfare.
Get Involved
Interested in supporting animal welfare? Join our community.
