By Marlien Van Der Westhuizen | PR & Senior Fundraiser
Your support means the world to us, and we are delighted to share an update on Khanyisa.
This month marks seven years since Khanyisa came to bring sunshine into the lives of people around the world.
Khanyisa was rescued from a poacher's snare, beginning a remarkable journey that has inspired people around the world. Over the years, she has grown, healed, and thrived through the love and dedication of her elephant family, carers, and supporters like you.
In recent months we’ve been noticed that Khanyisa’s tusks have grown into quite an impressive pair, especially when compared to the small baby tusks she had until recently. She has really grown up so much in the last seven years from a tiny elephant into a beautiful young cow.
We’ve also celebrated the relaunch of a special behind-the-scenes documentary that follows her story. Diary of an Elephant Orphan was first released in 2024 and gained international success, winning 11 international film awards. And now the documentary is available for viewing online for a limited time.
The documentary follows Khanyisa's incredible journey after she was rescued as a tiny orphaned albino elephant calf, injured by a snare and fighting for survival.
From her rehabilitation and round-the-clock care to the groundbreaking process of introducing her to the Jabulani Herd, the film tells the true story of hope, resilience, and the importance of giving orphaned elephants the chance to grow up surrounded by other elephants.
If you haven't seen it yet, we'd love for you to watch Khanyisa's remarkable story. Stream the documentary here: Diary of an Elephant Orphan - A True Story
Seven years after her rescue, Khanyisa stands as a shining example of what compassionate care and community support can achieve. From her earliest days at the orphanage to confidently exploring the bushveld with her herd, she has grown into a strong, independent young elephant. Her story reminds us that even after great hardship, healing and hope are possible when surrounded by love, patience, and support. Khanyisa may be small in stature but the lessons she has taught us are immense.
Thank you for following Khanyisa's journey and for being part of her story over the past seven years. Your support has played a meaningful role in helping her reach this incredible milestone.
As always, we are deeply grateful for your generosity and commitment to Khanyisa and our conservation efforts. Your support makes a lasting difference, not only to her life but to the wellbeing of the entire herd.
From all of us at HERD, thank you for being such an important part of this journey.
Yours in Conservation,
The HERD Team
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