Our series on “Champions for Change” will feature people of any gender in any role who are making a difference and creating positive change for women in the veterinary sector – enabling aspirations, inspiring and supporting others to grow and follow their passions, and empowering our community.
Dr. Jyotika Sangle is Dy Manager in the department of technical and regulatory affairs at Zenex Animal Health India PVT Ltd, Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India. In an area where the importance of the veterinary profession is not well understood, and a field which is not considered to be a career for women, Jyotika is making a difference, not just in promoting animal health and welfare, but also in providing a bridge between vets and regulatory authorities and a role model for other women who may be considering a veterinary career.
Please provide a brief bio/summary of your career story:
I have spent five years honing my skills in various segments of the veterinary field, including research and development, preclinical studies in laboratory animals, pet animal medicine and insurance, animal ethics and healthcare. I started my journey in 2019 after graduating with a master’s in veterinary microbiology and Immunology from Maharashtra Animal and Fishery Sciences University.
My journey has taken me from being a dedicated laboratory veterinarian in charge of the facility to championing the health and well-being of pets, with a wealth of experience in critical audits like NABL, GLP and AAALAC. I have served on prestigious committees like IAEC (Institutional Animal Ethics Committee), am a proud member of LASA (Laboratory Animal Scientists’ Association) and am on the radar for CPCSEA (Committee for Control and Supervision of Experiments on Animals) nomination.
I have attended workshops and participated in seminars, conferences and training to amplify my knowledge for the benefit of animals and their wellbeing. As a team lead, I have trained many employees and contributed to implementing new processes in the organisation.
Presently I’m working as a deputy manager in the department of technical and regulatory affairs at Zenex Animal Health India Pvt Ltd, Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Here, I’m dealing with the different regulatory authorities and also providing technical support to the field staff.
Please summarise how you are working towards change in the veterinary professions and why do you feel this is important?
As a veterinarian specialising in technical and regulatory affairs, I am committed to driving change and progress within the veterinary profession. With a strong background in animal health and welfare, I am dedicated to ensuring that veterinary practices adhere to the highest standards of ethics and professionalism. Through my work in regulatory affairs, I strive to bring about positive change and improvements in the industry, ultimately benefiting not only the animals we care for, but also our colleagues and the overall reputation of the veterinary profession. With a deep understanding of the field, I’m committed to implementing necessary changes that will benefits both animals and human.
My role in regulatory affairs allows me to advocate for better policies and regulation that not only benefits animals but also enhance the credibility and trust of the veterinary profession. My experience has deepened my understanding of drug development, regulatory approvals, and quality assurance in the pharmaceutical industry. In my current role, I feel deeply connected to my roots as I engage with numerous dairy farmers in the field, where I contribute to educating and improving the productivity and animal husbandry practices of these farmers and also train the field staff.
I find immense satisfaction and joy in my work, driven by passion and a sense of fulfilment. This fulfilment is reflected in my personal growth and the positive impact I make on farmers and other people.
How do you feel this is making a difference?
As a veterinarian in technical and regulatory affairs, I am responsible for staying up to date with the latest advancements in veterinary medicine and ensuring that all regulations and standards are met in the field.
Technical and regulatory affairs is a crucial aspect of the veterinary profession that often goes unnoticed. It involves the application of scientific knowledge and expertise to ensure the safety and efficacy of veterinary products, as well as complying with government regulations and guidelines. It is the bridge between science and regulation in the veterinary world.
Being a vet in technical and regulatory affairs has allowed me to make a significant difference in the veterinary profession, from ensuring product safety to promoting ethical practices. By keeping up with regulations and advancements in medicine, we are constantly striving towards providing the best care for our animal patients.
What motivated you to want to change things?
As a veterinary professional, I have always been passionate about providing the best possible care for animals. From a young age, I knew that I wanted to work in this field and make a positive impact on the lives of animals and their owners. However, as I began my journey in the veterinary profession, I noticed some areas that needed improvement and change , such as a shortage of veterinarians in rural areas, high veterinary costs which are unaffordable to animal owners from rural or deprived areas, lack of awareness about diseases and preventive measures and increased drug resistance due to over use, e.g. antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which ultimately affect the environment. This realisation led me to pursue a career in technical and regulatory affairs, where I could use my knowledge and skills to bring about positive changes in the veterinary industry.
I strongly believe that by working behind the scenes I can make a bigger impact and help shape the future of the profession in a positive way. Through my role, I can bridge the gap between veterinarians and regulatory authorities, introduce new technologies and sustainable solutions, and ultimately contribute towards a better future for our profession. I am grateful for the opportunity to make a difference and be a part of this journey towards change in the veterinary industry.
What are the biggest challenges you have encountered in this journey and how have you overcome them?
The biggest challenges were to work with the people who think that veterinary is not a profession for women. The area I come from is a rural area where people are not that well-educated to understand the importance of the veterinary profession. I met the challenge by keeping motivated always, and working hard towards the goal.
What has most helped and motivated you along the way?
My motivation throughout the journey was the farmers from the rural area I come from. I always wondered how anyone can care for their animals so much that they feel pain of the animals. Because of the high cost of medicine, they were never in position to treat their animals. Being a veterinarian, I felt passionately that we must overcome this problem and that I must do something for those farmers. This thought always encourage me to search for new medications or protocols that would be cheaper and helpful for those people.
“Do the work for which your heart craves. Never be afraid to speak up for yourself and others, and never let anyone dim your light.”
What is the best advice you’ve been given, or that you would give to someone else, about driving positive change?
The best advice has ever been given to me by my father that, no matter what the situation, do your best and do what makes you happy. Do the work for which your heart craves. Never be afraid to speak up for yourself and others, and never let anyone dim your light. As a woman, I believe the best advice I can give to others is to never underestimate your worth and capabilities. It’s important to remember that we are strong, resilient, and capable of achieving anything we set our minds and to always prioritise self-love, self-care, and self-confidence.
What are your next steps to continue creating change for the better?
First to keep finding new and cheaper medicine for animals, which is ultimately helpful for the farmers and other animal keepers. Secondly, to reach out to those women who are working for the betterment of women in society about what I can contribute for them. Also to reach out to the women living in rural areas who do not get opportunity to explore themselves and their knowledge. I’d like to help them to achieve their goals and motivate them to continue to break barriers, shatter glass ceilings, and pave the way for future generations of strong, confident, and empowered women. We truly have the power to change the world.
In honour of International Women’s Day on March 8th, 2024, we assembled a collection of ‘Champions for Change’ profiles into a free eBook. Explore exclusive stories highlighting inspirational figures driving positive change for women in veterinary.
Our thanks to Jyotika for sharing her inspiring story of how she is championing change. If you would like to nominate a Champion for Change or share your story, please let us know.
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