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In 2020, the world watched closely as we fought to save Khanyisa, a tiny albino elephant calf caught in a snare in South Africa. Her survival story touched hearts everywhere and has now been beautifully captured in Diary of an Elephant Orphan, a documentary by Hermien Roelvert-van Gils. On World Elephant Day, 12 August 2025, you’ll be able to watch this moving film online for the very first time.
Released in 2024, Diary of an Elephant Orphan gained international recognition, winning 11 film awards across the globe. The documentary follows our work here at the Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development (HERD) Trust, South Africa’s first and only dedicated elephant orphanage, as we cared for Khanyisa from just three months old. Injured and orphaned, she arrived needing constant milk feeds and round-the-clock care. We faced the challenge of introducing her to the Jabulani herd, something that had never been done with a calf so young, and we didn’t know if they would accept her.
Khanyisa’s journey has since been celebrated at festivals worldwide, including:
- Wildlife Film Festival Rotterdam
- S.O.F.A. Film Festival (South Africa)
- Romford Film Festival (UK)
- Reel East Film Festival (USA)
- Prairie Film Festival (USA)
- Poppy Jasper Film Festival (USA)
- Ocean City Film Festival (USA)
- Chesapeake Film Festival (USA)
- Buffalo Film Festival (USA)
- Catalina Film Festival (USA)
Sadly, Khanyisa’s story is not unique. Across Southern Africa, the number of orphaned and displaced calves is increasing due to poaching, habitat destruction, and human-wildlife conflict. That’s why we founded HERD in 2019, to give rescued calves a safe home, the guidance of a stable herd and the second chance they deserve. Today, we care for 16 elephants, ensuring each one’s well-being is at the heart of everything we do.
Organise a Watch Party
We’d love for Diary of an Elephant Orphan to be more than just a film you watch, it can be an experience you share. Why not organise a watch party with friends, family, your school or community group? Gather everyone in person or online, watch Khanyisa’s story together and spark conversations about elephant conservation. You could theme your space with elephant-inspired decorations, share snacks and even use the opportunity to raise awareness or funds for the Jabulani herd’s care. By sharing the viewing experience, you’ll not only enjoy the film but also help spread the message of hope, resilience and the importance of protecting these incredible beings.
To organise a watch party, please contact pr@herd.org.za.
Diary of an Elephant Orphan will be available to watch from 12 August 2025 on World Elephant Day.
🎥 Watch in South Africa: https://tinyurl.com/ym9smdk3
🎥 Watch Worldwide: https://tinyurl.com/yx8d6e7h
📺 Watch the Trailer Here:
