The new general manager of the Benoni SPCA, Darryn Potgieter (44) has pledged to remain loyal to animals following his appointment on September 1.
He takes over from Bronwyn Kleynhans.
Potgieter, a qualified dog trainer and animal behaviourist, grew up in Germiston and has worked for various restaurants and IT companies.
In 2018, he decided to follow his passion for animals when he joined and volunteered at a foundation called Soi Dog, meaning street dog, in Phuket in Thailand.
“I spent three months working for this organisation which deals with sterilisation and rescuing animals from the dog meat trade. I went back in 2019 until February 2020 just before the hard Covid-19 lockdown,” he said.
To keep himself busy during the lockdown, he did his CBTI canine behaviour instructor course.
Once the levels were relaxed, he volunteered at the Johannesburg SPCA in Booysens for seven months before he got promoted to kennel manager.
“I worked there for a year and ten months. I oversaw the day-to-day running of the kennels, looked after the dogs’ emotional, mental and physical welfare and adoptions,” he said.
Joining the Benoni SPCA
According to Potgieter, who owns a two-year-old cross-collie female, he got to know about the vacant SPCA manager post through someone but initially was not interested.
“I then had a change of mind and visited the Benoni SPCA. When I saw some of the animals, it was love at first sight.
“I also saw a need to assist, taking it as a challenge. Fitting into the new role wasn’t a hassle because I’ve worked for the SPCA before which made it easier,” he said.
The Kensington resident said he’s bringing in a hands-on approach to the SPCA and promises to get things done in a timely and correct way.
“ As a society, we will still be visible in communities and will do everything in our power to find homes for the animals,” said Potgieter.
Also Read: Benoni SPCA manager has resigned, but will stay in SPCA family
Also Read: Benoni SPCA remains on board despite challenging year– AGM
