Who We Are
Action for Animals is a registered non-profit company (NPC) in Johannesburg focused on practical, hands-on animal welfare. We partner with local rescuers and shelters to fund sterilisations, assist with urgent cases, and promote responsible pet ownership education. Our aim is simple: real help, full transparency, and a community working together to protect animals where we live.
Our Story
Over the past 12 years, we noticed that people within communities lack the resources to take care of their animals. Slowly, one animal at a time, one cent at a time, our group supported not only people who require help for their animals, but strays who needed medical attention and shelter. We became aware of how many strays exist in the world, the abuse of animals that take place right under our noses,and rescue organisations who battle financially to manage the influx of homeless dogs. We see how the lack of education causes over-breeding, and how this creates illness.
We see how the cycle continuous as animals are born into suffering, only to bring their young into the world.
We exist because Action is needed - to help the poor take care of their animals and to equip other organisations in need - whether this be financially, to educate, to stop the suffering. We're a fund that distributes to places of verified need.
The Team
Marlique Thornton
Director and Founder
Marlique Thornton is a director of Action for Animals and is passionate about improving the lives of vulnerable animals through compassion, education, and community collaboration. With a professional background in coaching, training, stakeholder relations, and business development, she brings strong strategic thinking and relationship-building skills to the organisation.
Twelve years ago, after recognising the need for greater community connection in an area with many stray animals and residents needing support to care for their pets, Marlique started a local social network to connect animal lovers, rescuers, and community members. What began as a small initiative has grown into a close-knit and active community of nearly 100 members who share information, assist one another, and work together to improve the well-being of animals in their area.
Outside of her professional work, Marlique enjoys an active outdoor lifestyle. She spends time at the park with her rescued Border Collies and enjoys running, cycling, swimming, and spending time in nature. Her love for animals and the outdoors continues to inspire her commitment to building kinder communities for animals and the people who care for them.
Selwyn Storer
Director
Selwyn has always had a love for animals, along with a deep appreciation for nature, especially the ocean, and a lifelong passion for classic cars. For years, however, one thing was missing. Living in apartments meant having a dog was never really possible.
As soon as he eventually moved into a house, that changed immediately. Selwyn adopted a rescue Husky who quickly proved to be both an escape artist and a long-distance runner. Like many Huskies, he had a talent for adventure and a habit of disappearing whenever the opportunity presented itself.
While looking for ways to get help when his wandering Husky went exploring, Selwyn discovered the Action for Animals WhatsApp group. It was a community where people helped one another find lost pets, share advice, and support fellow animal lovers.
Spending time in the group revealed a deeper need in the community. Many pet owners loved their animals dearly but struggled to afford veterinary care when emergencies arose. Wanting to help make a difference, Selwyn became increasingly involved, supporting efforts to assist with vet bills, reunite lost pets with their families, and ensure animals could receive the care they needed.
From these early efforts, and driven by a genuine passion for the health and well-being of animals, Action for Animals began to grow into the organisation it is becoming today.