Tshidi Gardiner

Biography

I am a small animal veterinary surgeon with over 20 years of clinical experience across equine charity work, mixed and small animal practice, and locuming in first opinion practice. I graduated from the University of Pretoria, Onderstepoort, in 2003 and hold a Postgraduate Certificate in Small Animal Surgery.  

Alongside my clinical work, I have always enjoyed mentoring and supporting others. I’ve been a clinical coach, an OSCE examiner for veterinary nursing colleges, and continue to support students and new graduates. My own journey through burnout and mental health challenges led me to become a certified Transformational Wellness Coach, NLP Practitioner, Mental Health First Aider, and life coach. I now create wellbeing and leadership training through Gardiner Coaching and deliver EDI consultancy as a director of Affinity Futures.

I was first elected to RCVS Council in 2021 and re-elected as Council member & Treasurer in 2025. I currently serve on the Officer Team, supporting the governance, finances, and strategic direction of the College. I’m the current Lead for Equity, Diversity & Inclusion and for Global Development, and Chair of the RCVS Finance & Resources Committee. I also serve as a trustee for Vets in Mind and sit on the IVC Ethnic Diversity Scholarship Board.

Locuming allows me to work with teams nationwide, gaining insight into the realities of practice life and helping to improve workplace culture. I believe that wellbeing, inclusion, and leadership are vital pillars of a thriving profession.

In recognition of my work, I was honoured to receive the Bartram Wellbeing Award (2022) and the Veterinary Leadership & Management Award. Outside of work, I enjoy long walks with my husband and our behaviourally-challenged rescue dog, and spending weekends in the cold, wet weather as a proud football and rugby mum.

Council Member category

• Elected member: 2021-2029

Committee membership

• Advancement of the Professions Committee
• Audit and Risk Committee (Observer)
• Finance and Resources Committee (Chair)
• Officer Team
• PIC DC Liaison Committee
• Registration Committee
• RCVS Knowledge Board of Trustees (Observer)
• CMS Project Board
• CRM Project Board
• Hardwick Street Refurbishment Group