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At HERD, we witness fatherhood in a meaningful and unconventional way. For us, it’s not always about sharing DNA but more about being present, patient, and acting with unwavering care.
Today, we honour the men who get up before the sun comes up, who accompany the herd on their daily outings, and who lead with tender hands and loving hearts. These are the father figures in our world. These are the elephant carers, like Tigere, who dedicate their lives to protecting, nurturing, and understanding each member of the Jabulani herd.
Fatherhood is Presence
It’s found in the quiet act of waiting beside an elephant until they feel safe and comfortable enough with their surroundings to graze.
It’s found in knowing the subtle differences between one low rumble and another and responding with calm comprehension. Over time, our elephant carers have forged a trusted companionship with the Jabulani herd by being the first to notice when something is off and the last to leave when extra care and comfort are needed.
The small moments are those that matter the most:
A trunk resting gently on a shoulder.
A look of recognition.
A shared routine, wordless and full of trust.
Bonds with the Bulls
These connections are especially striking in the relationships between the carers and the four older bulls: Jabulani, Fishan, Somopane, and Sebakwe. Tigere, the herd’s human dad, shared some insights into the lives of the four bulls that he has watched grow up over the past three decades.
Listen to Tigere’s stories about the bulls below:
This Father’s Day, we honour these quiet leaders — the elephant carers who give their hearts to this work every day.
They remind us that DNA does not define fatherhood.
It’s defined by showing up.
By offering quiet strength.
By giving love, over and over again, in the calmest, most consistent ways.
To the men who walk beside our elephants, and to all father figures who lead with kindness and compassion, the HERD Team thanks you.
This is beautifully written and expressed. There’s nothing to add. Nothing to change. It is exactly as is said. I join the HERD team in expressing my thanks and respect to each and every one of the carers. It cannot be said too many times. Thank you, thank you, thank you. Happy Father’s Day.