A day in the life of Carol Ann Geldenhuys, founder of Kittysnip

How do you typically start your workday?
I'm usually an early riser, so the first thing I do is grab a cup of hot coffee. I then check my phone to see if there's been any emergencies during the night, such as one of the volunteers finding a sick or injured stray cat. My son lives in America, so I then like to catch up on any messages that he may have sent through the night, as he's on a different zone.
Describe your work in a sentence.
You can go from a total high of witnessing a little cat finding its forever home to crying your eyes out the next day when rescuing an abused animal or finding out that there's nothing that can be done to save it.
What is your favourite thing about your job?
Seeing a little cat being successfully adopted - and receiving pictures which show how happy the whole family is with its newest member.
What has been your most challenging experience to date and how did you resolve it?
Sadly, trying to pay the veterinary bills every month. This is a real struggle and source of stress for us!

What advice would you give your younger self, if you could?
Stop being so critical about yourself. Focus on what you've achieved so far and not what you feel hasn't gone so well.
How do you maintain a work: life balance?
Right now, I'd say work is definitely my greater focus. But I have started to make a concentrated effort to switch off a little when my husband is home. He's my best friend and can make me laugh and forget about the issues of the day - which is the tonic I need.
Any advice for youngsters getting into the professional arena?
Choose a career where your passion lies. There are no shortcuts. Hard work is the only way to achieve the success you desire.
A fictional character you think would make for a good role model - and why?
Dr Dolittle, as he can converse with animals. He would have the ability to make humans realise that animals feel pain, happiness, love and fear just as humans do.
What is your greatest dream, professionally?
To study veterinary science. And even at this 'ripe old age', I'm still seriously considering it.
- Staff reporter