Interview with Dr. Manal Al Mansoori: Advocating for Animal Welfare and Veganism
Today, we are honored to speak with Dr. Manal Al Mansoori, a renowned Emirati physician whose unwavering commitment to both medicine and animal care has garnered her global acclaim. Dr. Al-Mansoori graduated from Dubai Medical College with a medical degree and has since gained vast experience in aesthetic and cosmetic medicine. She is a member of the Emirates Medical Association and several non-profit organizations. Her professional path has taken her to the position of General Practitioner, with a focus on aesthetics and laser treatments. She is the Medical Director of the prestigious Dr. Manal Al Mansoori Polyclinic. She specializes in laser treatments, aesthetics, anti-aging procedures, and general care.
Dr. Manal Al Mansoori anticipates the transformative growth of her programs in her unrelenting pursuit of promoting animal welfare. As part of her overall goal, she is establishing a dedicated vegan department within Yanni Animal Welfare. This creative initiative not only illustrates her dedication to reaching the Arabic-speaking populace but also attempts to expand compassionate care beyond cats and dogs.
Dr. Al Mansoori is motivated to confront the rising difficulties of social media bullying by leveraging the UAE's tolerance and acceptance ideals.
Her imaginative approach extends to her activities. She hopes to build a tiny sanctuary on her farm to provide a safe refuge for rescued animals such as goats, cows, and chickens. This multi-faceted vision showcases her unwavering dedication to creating a more compassionate world for all.
It's a pleasure to have you here.
Let us start with the journey toward veganism. What inspired you to embrace a vegan lifestyle and how has it impacted your life?
My shift to veganism was prompted by a confluence of events that came as a surprise, a shock, and a watershed moment in my dietary vision. In 2016, I uncovered lactose's negative impacts on human health and its link to current ailments. My health improved dramatically once I eliminated dairy from my diet. The shock came in 2017, when I saw a disturbing video depicting brutality on dairy farms. As a result, seeing films from both goat and dog slaughterhouses was a watershed moment. It prompted me to rethink my connection to food and animal care. Veganism not only improved my health but also resonated with my principles, transforming me into a genuine animal advocate. Today, my affection for animals knows no bounds.
Balancing your roles as a dedicated animal welfare activist and a prominent medical practitioner must be demanding! How do you manage to juggle these commitments while maintaining your busy schedule?
Animal welfare activism is an important aspect of my life. There are no time limitations or stops. My aim is to create significant advancements in animal rights before my time is up, and I am determined to do so. This combination necessitates focus and strategic planning to properly meet both my medical responsibilities and animal welfare activism.
You founded Yanni Animal Welfare, the first animal welfare association in Dubai. What were the challenges you've encountered along the way and the notable achievements of your organization?
It has been a challenging and rewarding road to establish Yanni Animal Welfare. Securing funds for a new non-governmental organization has been a major challenge. Our first battle was to change the social ideas of pets from mere toys or commodities to beloved companions. Abandonment rates and unethical breeding procedures were major roadblocks.
Furthermore, resistance to veganism has been impacted by cultural norms and traditions, particularly in the Middle Eastern environment. However, I'm pleased to highlight a few accomplishments.
We launched Dubai's first cat-feeding program. We even collaborated with EXPO 2020. Our efforts resulted in several animal abuse cases being heard for the first time in UAE courts, raising awareness about animal cruelty. As a result, federal law now sets harsher punishments for such violations.
While progress has been achieved, enforcing these rules continues to be a struggle.
Educating the public about animal rights and welfare requires effective strategies. How do you raise awareness and impart knowledge in Dubai and beyond?
My advocacy strategy is varied. I apply vegan ideas to my medical practice, generating substantial effects for my flexitarian clientele. As a mother, I can attest from personal experience that parenting vegan children may lead to happiness without sacrificing health or fun. Our association's path has been aided by media and social platforms. We began by sharing emotionally captivating videos to engage hearts and open minds to our message. We also host small events and have just begun targeting schools. It has resulted in positive feedback.
Your journey was shaped by various factors; what books helped shape your thoughts and aspirations?
Among the influential books in my life, Osho's "Courage: The Joy of Living Dangerously" is in high regard. This book has guided me to approach life with an adventurous spirit, fostering the sense of courage and personal growth.