About Us
Vera & Ryan
Vera's vision, built with Ryan's support and inspired by their shared values.
Photo coming soon
Our Story
The Vision Behind Jacupemba
Santuário Jacupemba began with Vera's vision. A committed vegan and passionate advocate for ecological living, health and animal welfare, she imagined a sanctuary in the Atlantic Forest where animal care, land restoration and ecological education could develop together. Ryan shares those values and is helping Vera turn her vision into a practical, lasting project.
Ryan brings experience from serving as a former trustee of Bristol Animal Rescue Centre and Bristol Dogs & Cats Home, and as the former National Training Secretary for Vegan Runners. Vera and Ryan are married and together are building Jacupemba around compassionate animal care, responsible ecological living and education.
Their daughter, Iris, has been vegan throughout her life and is now studying astrophysics at a university in the UK. Her curiosity about the universe and lifelong commitment to vegan values also form part of the story behind Jacupemba.
Each One, A Story
Vera
Jacupemba is Vera's vision. A committed vegan and passionate advocate for ecological living, health and animal welfare, she is shaping the sanctuary's values and direction while leading its future educational work with visitors, schools and the local community.
Role at the Sanctuary
Founder and Project Lead; Vision, Direction, Animal Welfare and Education Lead
Ryan
Ryan supports Vera's vision with experience as a former trustee of Bristol Animal Rescue Centre and Bristol Dogs & Cats Home, and former National Training Secretary for Vegan Runners. He contributes to planning, education support, technology and animal welfare.
Role at the Sanctuary
Co-founder; Planning, Education Support, Technology and Animal Welfare
Values That Move Us
Compassion
Every action is guided by respect and love for all beings.
Discipline and Transparency
Discipline and transparency guide how the sanctuary is managed. We will keep clear financial records and share them with supporters upon request, providing accountability for the resources entrusted to us.
Sustainability
Living in harmony with nature in everything we do.