Our Story
The journey of Elephant Whispers
From humble beginnings in Zimbabwe to a sanctuary in the heart of South Africa, our journey has been shaped by an unwavering commitment to elephant welfare, education, and the belief that humans and elephants can share meaningful connections.
Early Beginnings
The organisation traces its origins to Zimbabwe, founded by Rory Hensman, who grew up on a family farm surrounded by animals. In 1988, Hensman took in two orphaned young elephants named Jumbo and Miss Ellie, discovering these creatures possessed remarkable intelligence and responsiveness to human contact.
Hensman and his wife Lindie pioneered unconventional approaches emphasizing "patience, trust and respect" rather than submission-based methods. This earned Rory recognition as an "Elephant Whisperer."
In March 2002, political upheaval forced them from their Zimbabwe property. They relocated their elephants to South Africa, partnering with Howard Blight and Philé Van Zyl to establish Elephants for Africa Forever (EFAF). The organisation expanded to rescue traumatized elephants while training dedicated handlers in their philosophy.
The Next Chapter
Upon arriving in South Africa, the Hensmans connected with André and Colleen Kotze in Hoedspruit, forming a close friendship. The Kotzes' children, Nicholas and Amy, developed a deep affection for the elephants during visits beginning in 2002.
André and Colleen invested several years learning elephant care under Rory and Lindie's mentorship. They participated in daily activities including "walking with the elephants, sleeping in their stables" and absorbing extensive knowledge about elephant behaviour and needs.
A Safe Haven
Facing the challenge of securing a permanent home for five rescued African elephants in 2005, the concept of Elephant Whispers emerged. The mission combined finding sanctuary for the animals with establishing an educational tourism facility.
The search expanded when entrepreneur Jack Brotherton, experienced in tourism and committed to conservation, offered his expertise and partnership. The team identified Sandford's community-owned land in Hazyview as ideal. The elephants were introduced to their new home in December 2007, with public visitation anticipated for 2008.
The Legacy Lives On
Rory Hensman passed away on February 26, 2013, following a battle with brain cancer. Even near the end, he spent time with his elephants, who "gently caressed him with their trunks."
The Elephant Whispers team, with Lindie's continued involvement, perpetuates Rory's vision and mission to inspire wildlife preservation. Visitors experiencing educational elephant encounters often feel motivated to support conservation efforts benefiting future generations.