FOUR PAWS South Africa has announced that its Director, Fiona Miles, has been selected as a finalist in the Good Hope FM Warrior Women Awards 2025 in the Excellence in Leadership category, in partnership with the Women-In Festival.
For nearly two decades, Miles has been at the forefront of animal welfare transformation in South Africa. With the NGO's global vision and team collaboration, FOUR PAWS converted a former hunting and breeding facility into LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary, now home to around 100 rescued big cats. She has driven campaigns to end captive lion breeding, influenced national policy reforms and supported high-profile animal rescues. Miles' strategic leadership have been instrumental in creating systemic change and building a kinder future for animals, says the NPO.
Her nomination celebrates not only Miles' leadership, but also the strength of the FOUR PAWS team, whose collaborative efforts have driven impactful change for animals under direct human influence. Together, they have championed ethical sanctuaries, advanced animal welfare legislation and raised public awareness through education and advocacy, adds the NPO.
The finalists were announced live on Good Hope FM's Morning Show on Thursday, 29 October, with public voting via SMS. The awards ceremony will take place on Friday, 14 November during the Women-In Festival, says the NPO.
"I am deeply honoured to be named a finalist in the Good Hope FM Warrior Women Awards 2025 in the Excellence in Leadership category. Although my role is often public-facing, I rarely step into the spotlight for personal recognition — but this moment is different, as it gives me the opportunity share that recognition and to express my heartfelt gratitude to the incredible team I work with every day," says Miles.
"Leadership is never a solo journey, and I am here because of the unwavering support, passion, and dedication of my colleagues, my team and the global FOUR PAWS family. Together, we've made impactful strides in animal welfare and continue to amplify our mission to '#BreakTheViciousCycle' of the commercial trade of all big cats in South Africa. This recognition reflects the impact we're making — not just for animals, but for a kinder future for all," concludes Miles.
For more information, visit www.four-paws.org.za.
*Image courtesy of contributor