Our Team

We are a team of unpaid volunteers, all bound by our mission and shared commitment to protecting those who can’t speak for themselves.

What drives us?

Our unwavering commitment to improving the lives of animals in need. We are motivated by the belief that every dog, no matter their past, deserves a chance at a better future. The challenges we face are many, but the joy of seeing a dog find safety, love, and a forever home keeps us going.

We all share three core values and strive to uphold them in all we do—both inside and outside Bekaa Rescue + Shelter.

  • We believe that true humanity is reflected in how we treat those who cannot speak for themselves, and through our efforts, we strive to show compassion, empathy, and respect for all living beings. Our work in animal rescue goes beyond simply providing shelter—it’s about creating a world where kindness, understanding, and care for animals are seen as fundamental to the well-being of society as a whole. By championing the rights of animals, we uphold the dignity of every creature, reaffirming the shared responsibility we have to protect and nurture life in all its forms.

  • We are driven by the strength to overcome the challenges of animal rescue, from providing immediate care to advocating for long-term change in how animals are treated in Lebanon. It takes immense strength to face adversity, but it’s this very strength that allows us to continue our mission despite the obstacles. Each animal we rescue embodies strength in their own survival, and through our collective efforts, we find the courage and determination to give them the care and compassion they deserve.

  • "Love" is the heart of everything we do at the shelter. It’s the driving force that inspires us to go above and beyond in caring for the animals and ensuring they feel safe, valued, and cherished. Love for animals is not just about providing food and shelter—it’s about offering companionship, understanding, and unconditional support. Each animal we rescue is treated with kindness and empathy, and it’s through this love that we heal wounds, rebuild trust, and offer them a chance at a brighter future. Our commitment to love is what connects us as a team and fuels our mission to create a compassionate world where every animal is treated with the care they deserve.

Group of people standing outdoors surrounded by dogs, with mountains in the background.
Woman in hijab smiling with a black dog, sparkly filter.

Rawaa Mady | Founder + CEO

Rawaa Madi is the founder of Bekaa Shelter, a refuge for rescued animals in Lebanon. Raised in the Bekaa Valley, where fear and disdain for dogs were the norm, she never encountered a dog up close until the age of 27. That moment changed everything.

With a BA in English Literature and a BA in Political Science, Rawaa also serves as an education coordinator. Her passion lies in advocating for animal rights, particularly for dogs, who often face cruelty in her community. Through relentless dedication, she has rescued over 250 dogs and dozens of cats, providing them with safety and care at Bekaa Shelter.

Rawaa’s ultimate goal is to expand the shelter and foster a cultural shift toward humane treatment of animals in the region, where dogs are frequently shot or poisoned. She continues to raise awareness and fight for a future where compassion replaces cruelty.

Despite facing the stress of relying on unstable donations, she remains dedicated to improving the lives of animals in her community.