Caragh Murphy, of Plumstead, is the first youth ambassador for the animal welfare organisation, Four Paws South Africa.
The Sweet Valley Primary School Grade 5 says she chose Four Paws because she loves animals, especially cats and hedgehogs, and wants to help them. She recently ran a drawing competition at her school to raise awareness for World Animal Day, which was in October.
The drawings were posted on the Four Paws Facebook page, and the winning drawings were selected by the public.
Caragh then made Christmas cards using the winning drawings. She soon sold them all, making a total of R1860 for Four Paws, which is based at Westlake Business Park.
The hand over will be in December.
Caragh’s mother, Dana Katz, said the community had been very supportive of her daughter’s efforts.
“I hope this competition and the cards makes more people aware of the work that Four Paws does to help animals in need,” said Caragh.
Tanya van Tonder, of Four Paws, described Caragh as an “ambitious, passionate and gifted young person with a deep love for animals and a desire to make a difference”.
Caragh had contacted Four Paws at the end of 2019 offering to help, as she wanted to do something for animals, Ms Van Tonder said.
Four Paws has Lionsrock Big Cat Sanctuary in the Free State for rescued big cats such as lions and tigers.
“Caragh initiates her own ideas and fundraising projects, and we offer support and guidance where needed,” said Ms Van Tonder.
