|
Embark was launched in March 2007 with the sole mission of reducing animal cruelty and focusing on improving the wellbeing of animals throughout the country.
The overriding objective of Embark is to change the attitudes of people towards a more Pashionable approach when it comes to matters of the lives of the strays. With the message that owning a street pooch is as fashionable as any other. Embark has identified strategic goals that will assist in the movement to reduce cruelty and raise awareness for improved animal welfare.The main focus of Embark is the stray dog. To date Embark has undertaken and implemented a number of targeted activities that have made huge inroads into improving the wellbeing of stray dogs whilst working towards reducing the population through sterilization and adoption
Embark's key activities include sterilization surgeries, puppy re-homing campaigns, and caring for injured stray animals. Each of these activities is supported by a comprehensive and consistent campaign of education. To date, this has been achieved by raising awareness of the importance of animal welfare, and advocating practical approaches to connecting with stray dogs and communicating the importance of treating these community animals with respect.
Embark appeals to animal lovers of all ages, and we are delighted to say that we have converted many indifferent members of the public into dedicated supporters of Embark and have as a result been able to give a better life to many homeless dogs. |
Vision Statement |
Embark's dream is to provide a better life for the street dogs of Sri Lanka and give them the love, respect and home they deserve. |
Embark collection |
Embark funds projects from the profits of it's successful and much sort after collection of clothing and accessories. Embark has successfully turned passion into fashion by developing this line of merchandise which consists of highly trendy, yet surprisingly affordable clothing and accessories for men, women and children, and substantially augments the Embark offering which unites fashion with the cause of animal welfare. We aim to sell Embark merchandise internationally and increase our exposure to animal lovers world-wide, also bringing in more funds for our activities here in Sri Lanka. Click the link to see the Embark collection available online! http://www.odel.lk/store/advanced_search_result?keyword=embark
We also receive funds from many donors and animal lovers who believe in our objectives and want to help more stray animals find good homes |
Otara Gunawardene
|
Otara Gunawardene, founder and CEO of ODEL has had a colourful and successful career. Despite aspirations of being a veterinary surgeon, she ultimately studied Biology before being discovered as a potential model and was propelled to success on the catwalks of leading international designers. She then stumbled into the fashion retailing industry accidentally when she started to sell clothes from the boot of her car to family and friends. Her excellent eye for a trend and good quality clothing saw her launching a range of stylish clothing in Sri Lanka in 1990.
Her brainchild, ODEL has grown from a tiny outlet on Dickmans Road to an absolute lifestyle brand that is recognized internationally. Otara has been honoured with a number of awards as a leading businesswoman in Sri Lanka. These include; the SAARC Woman of Achievement Award (2000), Ten Outstanding Young Persons (TOYP) of Sri Lanka (2000) Award, Entrepreneur of the Year (2000) and the Zonta Award for "Woman of Achievement" (2002) to name just a few. Stevie award .....
Despite her success, she has remained true to her first love and has contributed to many programs for animal welfare, before launching her very own initiative, Embark. She remains involved in the day-to-day running of Embark, and is integral to the direction and activities of the program. |

