Dr Katrina Warren

Name: Dr Katrina Warren
Age: 40
Occupation: Television veterinarian

A familiar face to animal lovers, Katrina is a qualified veterinarian, a passionate animal lover and a regular on TV screens promoting what she loves most - pets and their responsible ownership. She loves her work and helping people enjoy a better relationship with their pets.

Who was your role model/s when you were a teen?
There were a couple of teachers who were my role models-they were more like friends then teachers and they really helped me during my final years at school.

How did your role model/s help you?
They taught me to believe in myself and to have confidence that I could achieve what I dreamt of achieving.

What role or influence do you think role models have?
Role models can play a crucial role in your life- if you look up to someone with a positive message and outlook, then that is what you will aspire to.

What were some of the issues you faced as a teen?
I often lacked confidence when it came to exams- I would convince myself I was going to fail no matter how prepared I was. I would get so stressed that I couldn't sleep.

How did you overcome these issues?
This is where my role models helped by spending time with me and helping me build confidence.

What do you remember most about being a teen?
I studied a lot because I was obsessed with getting into vet school. I spent too much time worrying about exams. I also have lots of happy memories of playing with animals on our school farm every morning.

What qualities do you think you possess that have helped you succeed in your chosen field?
I love what I do and am very determined when I set my mind to something. I'm not afraid of hard work if it helps me achieve my goals.

Outside of career success, what is it that you are most proud of?
My beautiful daughter- Charlotte Rose. I was never a person who focused on having children but she has enriched my life beyond belief and I cannot imagine my life without her.

Do you undertake activities to help others/community?
I work for some wonderful charities including:

• Animals Asia Foundation - they rescue moon bears from hideous bear bile farms in China
• Assistance Dogs Australia- provide highly trained dogs to help people with physical disabilities
• WIRES - wildlife information and Rescue Service
• Planet Ark- I'm a National Tree Day ambassador- encouraging Australians to plant more trees.

Your advice to youths about realising their own potential...
Surround yourself with people who encourage and support you. Don't waste time with people who are negative or don't make you feel good about yourself.

When it comes to how you live your life, what are the most important factors/values?
To be honest, loyal to my friends and true to myself.

Why do you think you make a good role model?
Hopefully I am a walking example that you can achieve what you want if you set realistic goals and work hard enough toward them. I would love to help young girls realise the value of education because without that I would not have had this wonderful career.