Today we’d like to introduce you to Janae Matthews.
Hi Janae, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My love for animals was discovered at a very young age. During my younger years, I would always try and save every caterpillar, rolly polly and anything else I saw and thought it belonged in the house! I have always had a love and passion for animals for as long as I can remember. They have always captivated my heart ❤️ and imagination. When most people are young their dreams and passion often change with the wind but mine has always been surrounded by animals and I knew I wanted to make a difference!
My passion and purpose has shaped me into the person I am today!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Life is definitely full of challenges but overcoming them is what makes them meaningful. Growing up I was honestly blessed beyond measure with a loving family that encouraged me and supported me.
Embracing our destiny is the hardest challenge of all. Throughout life I often dimmed my light 💡 but I realized what God gave me (passion) someone else needs! It’s my plan and duty to Light the path and shows them that all is possible!
I remember the very first day I heard a little girl say “I want to be like you when I grow up” I was in complete shock lol.
Being a black woman in the field of zoology, wildlife and veterinary medicine is an honor because growing up With my passion It was very few who looked like me!
The biggest challenge I have ever faced was losing my mom (The great Pamela Matthews my forever Angel) last year, she was my sunshine, my backbone she was all that and then some. My mom always wanted to see me turn my dreams into reality and it breaks my heart to know she won’t be able to physically but I know she’s leading and guiding me every step of the way!
So it’s my duty to stay on the path and make not only myself but her proud.
My inspiration is my family and especially my niece and nephew (Jc and Janelle) who thinks I’m the most amazing person and of course, my sister (Nikki) who will always be my biggest cheerleader.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Defining Greatness is not only a business but also what I live by on the daily.
What sets me apart is my versatility, patience, passion, and my black girl magic. I am in the field of Veterinary Medicine where my versatility has opened so many doors for me.
I am a vet nurse, assists in water therapy for animals @Fur Fix aquatics, I was a zookeeper for over ten years and a trusted pet sitter In the community.
I am honored to say that I am the first and only black licensed wildlife rehabber in the middle Ga area where I specialize in small mammals and reptiles.
My goal In life is to live a life of passion and purpose while making a difference and defining greatness by mentoring, inspiring, saving animals and having faith!
My goal is to continue studying veterinary medicine with a strong concentration in wildlife and zoo medicine, Mentor and make a change and leave a legacy that lives forever.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Lol haha, the good part! Growing up I was unapologetically me.
I was the kid who would talk your ear off. I would have a pocket of rolly polly’s and a story to tell on how I could talk to animals 🐢 🏡 and everything else and I loved it! To this day I’m still a firm believer that animals talks to those who are willing to listen.
Growing up my interest were animals, cars and being a kid.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: defining_greatness23
