9 Dec 2025
Saving Community Cats in Queens, NYC with LIC Feral Feeders - S2 Ep10
In this episode, we're in New York City's Queens neighborhood to speak with the amazing team from LIC Feral Feeders: Victoria Koulouris, Jannatul (Jan) Ahmed, and Raiana Khan.
Tune in as we dive into the vital work this organization is doing with community cats in Long Island City and the challenges they face, from gentrification to addressing different cultural perspectives on animal care.
This episode of Critters & Cultures is brought to you by:
Maddie's Fund: A family foundation working to transform animal welfare through innovation, education, and equity. Learn more at maddiesfund.org.
The BIPO and Animal Well-being Collective: A community for Black, Indigenous, and other people of color connected through care, work, and advocacy in the animal well-being space. Find support or get involved at bipacollective.com.
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Meet Our Guests from LIC Feral Feeders:
Victoria Koulouris (IG @therealmisshitwinner)Co-founder of LIC Feral Feeders. A lifelong New Yorker with decades in Queens, she is involved in much of the Trap, Neuter, and Return (TNR) and rescue work across Long Island City. She brings "history, grit, and a deep love for her neighborhood and outdoor cats".
Jannatul (Jan) Ahmed (IG @janskittens)
The Director of Operations at LIC Feral Feeders. She is a Bengali Muslim New Yorker, born and raised in Astoria. Her journey began during the pandemic by fostering kittens. Jan advocates fiercely for the immigrant and diaspora communities in Queens, many of whom are being displaced by gentrification and rising costs.
Raiana khan (IG @queens.kitties)
A dedicated rescuer and Community Cat Coordinator with LIC Feral Feeders.Her hands-on TNR work, cultural perspective, and advocacy for outdoor cats bring a grounded voice to the conversation. Ryana, whose parents are from Bangladesh, shares how her background helps her connect with community members who may have different views on pet care.
LICFF Website: https://licferalfeeders.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/licferalfeeders/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/licferalfeeders
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@licferalfeeders
About Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM
Dr. Azalia Boyd, DVM, is a distinguished veterinarian and educator committed to equitable veterinary care and community engagement. A proud alumna of Tuskegee University, she earned her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 2008 and a Bachelor of Science in Animal and Poultry Sciences in 2004, recognized with a Presidential Academic Scholarship. As CEO of Boyd Veterinary Services and Consulting, LLC, she mentors youth aspiring to veterinary careers and supports young minority students. Previously, she was the Chief Veterinary Medical Officer for Companion Animals for Reform and Equity (CARE), working to bridge access gaps for BIPOC and marginalized communities. Dr. Boyd actively participates in professional associations like the AVMA and GVMA and holds certifications from the University of Pennsylvania and Wharton Online. An international speaker, she addresses improvements in veterinary care and cultural competency, positioning her as a leader in advancing the field for all.
