Discover more about ROLDA Norway

My name is Alexandra Andresen-Thompson. I live on an equestrian farm in Moss, Norway with 75 horses, two dogs and my husband. I’ve been riding my whole life and have always been surrounded by animals growing up. My passion is animal welfare. That’s why I founded ANDRESEN DRESSAGE, to show the world that dressage can be done with top horse welfare, without forceful methods, and still perform at the top of the sport. I’ve donated to several animal rescues for years, including ROLDA, but I realized that I wanted to make a larger impact with volunteering as swell.

I started working at ROLDA a few years ago, initially focusing on web development for various projects. I also took on the challenge of solving different issues as they arose, which helped me develop my creativity and ambition in finding solutions. What I do at ROLDA is driven by passion and deep commitment. If I can contribute, even in a small way, to ROLDA’s efforts, I feel proud to be part of this mission. For me, ROLDA is "a place" where people from around the world come together, united by our shared goal of making the world a better place for animals.

I chose to volunteer as a board member at ROLDA because I believe real impact happens when compassion meets action. Animal welfare has always been close to my heart, and ROLDA’s work in rescuing, rehabilitating, and advocating for animals aligns deeply with my values. With my background in business, marketing, and strategy, I wanted to contribute beyond donations - bringing structure, visibility, and growth to a cause that truly matters. Joining the board allows me to use my professional experience to support meaningful change, while being part of a community driven by empathy, responsibility, and purpose. For me, this is not just volunteering - it’s a commitment to making a lasting difference.

My commitment to animals dates from when I was very little,I remember trying to sneak dogs in my parents apartment and hiding them in the wardrobe which I can say that my mother hardly enjoyed. Being involved at ROLDA and being around animals helped me rediscover my passion for these beautiful and so often unfairly treated furry companions. Being a board member of ROLDA since 2015 gave me the privilege to be first hand witness of its incredible growth, but also kept me in direct contact with all the difficulties this growth involves. While it is true that ROLDA is the beacon of hope for the animals, during all these years, we were fortunate to have people in our team that kept this hope alive and of course, had different opportunities to learn more about people through the animals' eyes.

Upon joining ROLDA, I realized that I wanted to direct my attention and support towards animals. I understood how important it is to be their voice, to represent them, and to make their lives easier and more beautiful because they cannot express what they think or feel. This responsibility motivates me and drives me to use my skills to give them a better life. My love for animals is deep and personal. I have two adopted dogs, Dezzi and Freedo, who changed my life.

My experience in project management has helped me successfully oversee multiple projects alongside ROLDA, ensuring that each initiative is completed with efficiency and compassion. A particularly special moment in my career was rescuing Ștefănuț, a puppy to whom I became deeply attached. I found him in December, in the middle of the night, while it was snowing and the temperature was freezing. At first, I thought it was something discarded on the street, but when I stopped the car, I discovered it was a completely frozen puppy, unable to move or call for help. After bringing him to ROLDA, Ștefănuț quickly found a loving family, which reinforced my belief in the importance of our work. For me, ROLDA is not just a workplace but a true family, where each day is an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of the most vulnerable among us.

I chose to volunteer for the board of ROLDA Norway because its mission aligns with my values and more than 20 years’ experience in the charity sector—and because I’m a lifelong dog lover. Living in the UK, I’ve met many lovely Romanian rescue dogs while walking my Spaniel, Billy, and my family shares that love of dogs, including our own rescue, Buzz. Professionally, I’m committed to causes that combine compassion with accountability and lasting impact, and ROLDA’s focus on rescue, rehabilitation, vaccination, and sustainable solutions reflects that. Serving on the board is my way of contributing my skills while supporting responsible, compassionate action to improve animals’ lives.