For Paulos Lenka Kholu (44) from Etwatwa, working with animals is more than a job but a calling that has shaped 14 years of his life at the Springs SPCA.

Kholu recently celebrated his 14-year milestone at the organisation, reflecting on a journey he describes as both challenging and deeply rewarding. He told the Springs Advertiser that it feels incredible to reach the milestone.

“I am so thankful for the opportunity to help animals and to work alongside people like my manager, Annecia le Roux, who is always there for me whenever I need her,” he said.

Looking back to when he first joined, Kholu shared that the beginning was not easy, but his passion for animal welfare kept him going.

“In the beginning, it was hard and definitely not easy. But I feel incredibly blessed to work at the Springs SPCA.

“There are so many people standing behind me and offering support: the staff, the committee, the management, and the community.

“I have always wanted to work with animals and help them; that is exactly why I joined the SPCA. I wanted to make a real difference in their lives,” he said.

Over the years, his role has grown from basic animal care to more demanding responsibilities, including rescues and community outreach.

He shared that moving into the role of an animal welfare assistant or field officer is a big responsibility and is a role that he is fully committed to playing.

One of his most memorable rescues involved a goat that fell into a manhole in Kwa-Thema, a case he still recalls vividly.

“There are many rescues I will never forget. Seeing animals badly neglected makes me emotional, but successfully rescuing them makes me so proud.”

Despite the emotional toll that comes with animal welfare work, Kholu said he draws strength from his team and his purpose. He noted that some situations are deeply sad and difficult.

“I stay strong by focusing entirely on helping the animals and working closely with my team. I am very lucky to have such strong support from my managers and colleagues from other SPCAs.”

Education, he added, remains a key part of preventing neglect and cruelty. Kholu highlighted the importance of education, as many people simply don’t know how to care for animals correctly.

For Kholu, the work is driven by compassion and the bond he shares with animals.

“I enjoy the unconditional love and trust that animals give. It brings me so much joy to be a voice for those who cannot speak for themselves.”

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He is also known among colleagues for his positive attitude. He said that he tries to stay positive by always remembering why he chose this path. Ultimately, helping animals is what brings him the greatest joy.

Kholu said that teamwork has been central to his journey and that they support and lift each other up every single day to ensure the work gets done properly.

As he reflects on his years of service, Kholu said recognition from colleagues and the organisation means a great deal.

“It means the world to me to receive recognition from my colleagues and the organisation. It makes me feel deeply appreciated and proud of the journey.”

He added that the community has played a big role in shaping his experience at the SPCA, while also offering advice to young people hoping to follow a similar path.

Looking ahead, Kholu hopes the organisation continues to grow and that animal welfare awareness improves in communities.

“I hope the Springs SPCA continues to grow and that more people in our society learn to treat animals with the love, respect, and care they deserve.”

As he celebrates this milestone, he expressed gratitude to those who have supported him throughout his journey.

“I want to thank my colleagues, our supporters, and the entire community for your unwavering support over the years. Together, we can continue helping animals and making a difference.

“A very special thank you to the Springs SPCA management team, Annecia and Mandie Foreman, as well as our committee; you always give me the strength to keep pushing forward,” concluded Kholu.