Sheila Donya Kouhkan, Chief of Engagement
Sheila Donya Kouhkan is the Chief Engagement Officer for C.A.R.E. (Companions and Animals for Reform and Equity). As an Iranian-American born to two revolutionary activists, social justice and compassion have been guiding principles throughout her life, solidifying her desire to be a Changemaker for good.
Sheila has been part of the animal well-being industry since 2003 when she was a 15-year-old volunteer at her local shelter. She started her professional career in 2009 while simultaneously attending the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and working on legislation for the City of Los Angeles. She was instrumental in developing groundbreaking policies for animal well-being, including the bans on the commercial sale of puppy mill dogs, cat declawing, and the use of bullhooks on elephants in traveling shows. Since then, she has continued to devote her time to finding opportunities to help pets and the people who love them, working with many national organizations including Best Friends Animal Society, Austin Pets Alive!, and Pethealth. Sheila is committed to using her diverse background to cultivate and promote Human and Animal Well-Being and adamantly believes that inclusivity equals lifesaving.
Sheila lives in Southern California with her Husky mix, Ziba, and enjoys fostering for local shelter partners.
Email:sheila@careawo.org
