Kwane Stewart

Co-founder, board president, Project Street Vet
San Diego

More than a decade ago, veterinarian Kwane Stewart walked into his local 7-Eleven for his morning coffee, and on his way out, he stepped into his purpose.

Stewart, 53, examined the skin condition of a dog owned by a homeless man. The man was beyond grateful for that “small deed,” thanking Stewart for simply not ignoring him.

“It gave him hope,” said Stewart, who at that time in 2011 contemplated leaving his profession altogether. He had been working as a veterinarian in a high-kill animal shelter, which took an emotional toll on him. “That day, I saw a different side of what I could do.”

Since that pivotal moment, Stewart has walked the streets of San Diego searching to offer pro bono medical care for other pets of people experiencing homelessness. With encouragement from his younger brother and filmmaker, Ian Stewart, Kwane shared his story in the docuseries, “Dr. Kwane: The Street Vet.”

In 2020, Stewart officially launched his nonprofit, Project Street Vet, offering a range of services from pet care to financial assistance. He and fellow veterinarians — located in Los Angeles, the Bay Area, Atlanta, Orlando and New York — are treating thousands of animals and comforting their human parents. Their motto: “No judgment. Just help.”

Stewart knew at 7 years old that he wanted to be a veterinarian, and he credits his mother’s love for animals with stirring that passion. Now he can’t see himself doing anything else. “For me, professionally and personally, that day in 2011 gave new meaning to my life as a vet.”

2024 Honorees