Pisa Turns 16 | A Confident Young Leader in the Making

Born on one of the hottest days of summer, Pisa entered the world with determination and strength, qualities that continue to define her sixteen years later.

On 13 November 2009, while out in the bush, Tokwe, the matriarch of the Jabulani herd, went into labour with no warning. Within an hour, a small but mighty calf stood beside her, and together they began the long, four-kilometre journey back to the homestead under the blazing sun. Her carers were astonished by her resilience, walking such a great distance on such a sweltering day. It was only fitting that she was named Pisa, meaning “heat” in Shona.

Learning from the Best

As the second daughter of Tokwe and younger sister to Limpopo, Pisa has grown up surrounded by wisdom, strength, and love. From an early age she has mirrored her mother’s confidence and natural sense of leadership. Wherever Tokwe goes, Pisa is never far behind, observing, learning and gradually carving out her own path within the herd.

Over the years, her independence has blossomed. Pisa often takes the lead during foraging and sunset walks, confidently guiding her family through the bushveld. Her strong and athletic build reflects her energy and determination, while her pointed forehead and still-growing tusks remind us that she is still young, with so much more ahead of her.

Finding Her Own Place

Like many teenagers, Pisa has had moments of figuring out her role in a big family. When younger orphans like Timisa and later Khanyisa joined the herd, she was hesitant at first, unsure how to adjust to the new attention surrounding them. But as she matured, Pisa’s gentle, nurturing side began to show.

Now, she often spends time with Timisa and Khanyisa, standing nearby or joining in play. Her bond with them reflects how much she has grown from a spirited young calf to a caring and reliable presence among the younger elephants.

She also shares a special closeness with Mambo, who was born just three months before her, and with Zindoga, slightly older but equally playful and spirited. Pisa and Zindoga are often seen side by side, spending hours together in what sometimes looks like a budding relationship full of trust and affection that mirrors her growing maturity.

Strength, Confidence and Heart

At sixteen, Pisa is thriving. She is confident and poised, with the same spark she showed on the day she was born. Her independence shines through, yet her deep connections to her family remain constant. Whether walking beside her mother Tokwe, foraging together with Zindoga or quietly watching over the younger elephants, Pisa embodies the heart of a future leader.

Moving Forward Without Limpopo

This year brought the heartbreaking loss of Pisa’s beloved older sister, Limpopo, a gentle and guiding figure in her life. Though the herd continues to feel her absence deeply, Pisa has shown remarkable strength and resilience. She has been spending more time with the youngsters, especially Timisa and Khanyisa, and has grown even closer to her mother, Tokwe, as they move forward together.

In her own way, Pisa reflects the unity and love that define this remarkable herd, a reminder that leadership is not only about confidence but also about compassion and connection.

Happy 16th Birthday, Pisa

Today, we celebrate Pisa’s sixteen years of life, love and learning within the Jabulani herd. From the determined newborn who took her first steps under the summer sun to the confident young leader she’s become, Pisa continues to make her family proud every single day.

Foster Pisa

By fostering Pisa, you help us provide her with the care, nutrition and protection she needs to continue growing into the remarkable leader she’s destined to become.
Your support allows Pisa and the rest of the herd to live safely and freely, and helps us to be there for future orphans who need a family too.

Click Here to join her foster family.