A Journey of Compassion from Gujarat to New Zealand
Yug Upadhyay grew up in Gujarat, India—a region known for its rich history and notable figures like Gandhi. Reflecting on his hometown, Yug sees many similarities with Palmerston North, New Zealand. “Both places have a calm, college-town vibe,” he says. “There’s always something to do, yet it’s peaceful.”
Yug’s love for animals started early, shaped by his upbringing. His parents instilled in him a deep respect for nature and all its creatures. One of his earliest memories of helping animals was during Gujarat’s famous International Kite Festival, Uttarayan. The festival filled the sky with kites, but these vibrant displays posed a danger to birds, often getting tangled in the invisible strings. Whenever Yug’s father found an injured bird, he would rescue it, and Yug quickly developed a passion for caring for these creatures.
Inspired by his father’s compassion and his mother’s academic drive—she’s a lawyer with a PhD in Sanskrit—Yug realised his calling. He began working with animal welfare organisations in Gujarat, eventually founding his own NGO to address the increasing need for animal care. Yet, despite his hands-on experience, Yug knew he needed formal veterinary training to make a more significant impact in India.
New Zealand became his destination of choice with its excellent veterinary training reputation. Yug enrolled at UCOL in the New Zealand Certificate in Animal Technology (Vet Nursing Assistant). Transitioning into life as an international student in New Zealand wasn’t always easy. Adjusting to Kiwi slang took time, and juggling his studies with a part-time job at a local restaurant tested his resolve. Yug credits his work for helping him adapt to life in Palmerston North, while his lecturers and UCOL’s support staff were always there when he needed them.
“UCOL is the first door I knock on whenever I have any trouble. They’ve gone above and beyond for me.”
In addition to his studies, Yug volunteers at the Wildbase Recovery Centre, where he has the unique opportunity to work with native New Zealand birds. His experiences there are helping him hone his avian animal skills, and he continues to grow as a student and a veterinary nurse.
Yug’s academic journey hasn’t stopped with his Certificate. He’s now working on getting his New Zealand Diploma in Veterinary Nursing and has his sights set on a master’s degree in veterinary science. Despite these accomplishments, Yug remains driven by his mission to improve animal welfare on a larger scale. His NGO, which spans three cities in India, is only the beginning—Yug plans to tackle the widespread issue of stray animals, hoping to expand his reach and impact.
Through his story, Yug hopes to inspire others, especially young people, to follow their passion for caring for animals.
Learn more about Vet Nursing and Animal Care programmes at UCOL.