The Heartwarming Love Between an Elephant Orphan & Her Human Mother: Khanyisa & Adine 💖

This one’s for the heart and soul! Take a look at the love between Khanyisa and Adine as we go back in time, looking at the moments they have shared. We start in September 2022 and flash back little by little to January 2020 when Khanyisa first arrived after being rescued from the snare that orphaned her.
It’s an incredible bond these two share and it’s one that has helped Khanyisa to gain confidence and security after the trauma and pain she endured at only four months of age. When you think of a human infant of that age it really hits home just how fragile and vulnerable she was and how terrified she must have felt. Her human herd helped give Khanyisa the kindness and warmth and sense of belonging she needed to heal.
Through the love of Adine and her carers, humans were able to undo the damage done by others. It has been a journey made possible by all our supporters and partners. You are a part of this story.
DON’T FORGET to email us your 20 second landscape selfie video message for Khanyisa’s birthday celebration on 26 September! [e-mail] | Today is the last day to submit!
#khanyisaturns3
#khanyisamonth

[@maurasalete2486]

I love Khanyisa ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@mariafont8826]

Esta recopilación de momentos es un verdadero tesoro.

[@lindaclark1406]

We have all seen the love and care Adine has for this little one. You are truly her guardian angel and will continue throughout the years. Thank you for this lovely video. It was deeply appreciated. ❤

[@katewaterbaby]

Such an incredible story it has been. Khanyisa, right away, seemed so aware she was being rescued. She felt safe with you all. And loved you, Adine, from the very start. I remember those first bottles and everyone's patience and gentle persistence when it was so difficult and painful for her to drink. My favorite scene has always been Adine returning after being away, wearing that startlingly clean white outfit! And Khanyisa's happy mauling and squeaking rumbles. This vid includes many more touching engagements, some I'd never seen. Adine's fearless closeness has meant everything. It's all a miracle. Sweet blessings on you all.

[@imadielariel3109]

Blessings indeed. An incredible assembly of stories in this video of love, dedication, care and knowledge. Some I had not seen. And Khanyisa responding to that love and doing her best. Adine is simply amazing, as are the carers. There are no words really for the magic and importance of what HERD is doing. Thank you for all the sharing. Although retired I contribute when am able. We owe the world, our planet, and humanity the survival of these utterly amazing animals, animals who teach us to be better humans.🥀💞🐘💗

[@judithbourne5130]

This video has been such an absolute joy and pleasure to experience. Despite her rough start she has become such a loving and gentle soul. Aiden has been there from the onset and will always. Khanyisa loves and is love by the staff and the Jubalani herd (the Force Field).

[@jenihansen7201]

THIS WAS AMAZING TO WATCH . THANK YOU ADINE AND H.E.R.D. AND CARERS.

[@sharonj.2865]

Hard to watch and not become tearful. All of you are so lucky to know elephant love! I'm so glad she has a family, both human and elephant! Such an amazing journey for all of you.

[@dionnedunsmore9996]

❤️ Very sweet Khanysia definitely loves Adine❤️

[@belindasummers4673]

Adine has got such a tangible love for these elephants that they sense it, they feel it, therefore the deep love relationship. Love it Adine ❤️😘

[@annsmarpat9500]

I also would add that they are soulmates or kindred spirits. Khanyisa immediately took to Adine, like they already knew each other. Beautiful 🐘❤

[@JamieM470]

It's very rare to find a person who literally glows from within. Adine glows. The elephants see it.

[@annsmarpat9500]

@@JamieM470 what a lovely way to put it. Yes Adine's light shines bright 🙌🏻 . She's a Godsend for sure.

[@gloriamariasuarezpinto6803]

Fascinantes momentos vividos KHANYISA la elefantita 🐘 y Mamá humana ADINE 🙏

[@vanessaalexis6505]

When pure love is given; pure loved is received. Such a beautiful growth of love & trust.

[@kiko7247]

One of the most beautiful and profound testimonies of love and empathy. Thank you, Adine, and Herd team, for making this world a better place

[@neliaferreira9311]

Thank you Very much , Adine e ALL of HERD

[@CarolAbhayaratna]

Many thanks for all you do Much love Carol

[@CarolAbhayaratna]

Many thanks for all you do Much love Carol

[@Alli_Sea]

"Love is patient; Love is kind". It amazes me every time how an abused, injured and terrified little soul (with His Grace and our kindness / patience) is able to take that huge leap of faith - to trust and love again. ❤

[@taniaherbst9783]

They are such gentle majesti creatures, thank you to you and team for your work and for sharing, so special

[@catherinekilgore619]

I love all those sweet times between them. ❤🐘🥰

[@dorothywestcott2408]

Such a heart warming video. You can see just how much love Khaynisa has for her human mom Adine and the feeling is mutual. Listen to all that rumbling. Thank you for all of these precious memories ❤️🐘❤️

[@barbarabourgeois888]

So precious!!! Thank you Adine for taking such good care of Lil Khanyisa and all the Ellies!!! God bless you, the Carers and all the Magnificent Ellies!!! 🙏🏻💜🐘🐘🐘💜🙏🏻

[@Clodi19]

I would like to say that Adine is a Heroes at all the levels !! fortunately Vet’s were there❤but Adine was more than a nurse. She was her mother 24/24 with keepers ! She gave to Khanyisa love cuddles, big hugs she gave her nights ! songs ! Talking every day like to a human baby She learnt to drink with a bottle she plaid with her !! I think KHANYISA MEISIKIND SUNSHINE will always remember what Adine did for her, all its life ! I also think that Khanyisa is a half human her mum is Adine !! 💕🐘💕🐘🇫🇷❤️ thank you very much for sharing this fantastic video, which is very very moving 🥲 today it ‘s already more than a wonderful souvenir and Baby Khanyisa is a happy healthy little girl 💕😘💕🐘🇫🇷

[@Beruthiel45]

Oh, these images make me melt, to see how love can mend a sad little baby who needed love so much. 💖💖💖🐘💖💖💖 Thank you Adine for your dedication and determination and care, and love. 😥

[@masalachic2461]

Such a sweetheart 💕 💖

[@aidabarreto3920]

I remember when baby KHANYISA first came to the orphanage with severe wounds from the trap. I remember KHANYISA when she started to feel better giving Adine a big slobbering kiss. I remember KHANYISA'S beautiful big blue green eyes, with a glimmer knowing she was safe. I remember KHANYISA being drunk from all the milk from her family, because she went from one to the other lol. I remember KHANYISA laying down for a nap and the HERD forming a circle to protect her the precious pink baby. I remember KHANYISA swimming and using her trunk like a periscope like a submarine LOL. But best of all I enjoy watching KHANYISA being a rebel, a social butterfly 🦋 and enjoying the freedom she has. GOD BLESS YOU KHANYISA, GOD BLESS ADINE AND THE CARE KEEPERS FOR DOING A FANTASTIC JOB.

[@brendamcmanus9438]

You said that perfectly 💜🩷❤️ Watching Khanyisa arrive, rescued by Adine & HERD…I cried too. She was so small, so fragile We are blessed to join the Jabulani Family with every video. 💚💙🩵💜🩷

[@jennifercreeke9957]

@@brendamcmanus9438

[@CristinaF210]

her with Adine are just the most precious moments ive seen, it makes EVERYTHING worth while the long days the walks the tears the laughs the expensive treatments, to see this baby girl thrive, survive, see her running around so happy, i cant even explain it in words its wonderful, absolutely wonderful its a real life fairy tale, thank you all at HERD for making this possible you are all such beautiful people, your smiles your pride for helping these ellies, its amazing guys i cry every time i watch this is my favorite video i love them all but this is the ONE you are a Queen Adine such a precious lady you should receive the nobel prize you and ALL the other people who work to save animals around the world thank you so so much

[@willieholland1524]

BLESSINGS BLESSINGS BLESSINGS 💜🌸🙏💜🐘🌸🙏💜

[@hollyj7090]

🌟Adine ! No doubt ...this is so much more rewarding than accounting for other peoples money could ever be😉 All the best to you💕 ...and Khanyisa💕🐘

[@Caprica-od6oc]

The love of a mother. To me is the foundation of the deep connection between the herd, khanyisa and Adine. Most of the adults in the herd learned over the years what kind person Adine is. They all have experience her kindness and dedication to protect all of them. In Khanyisa's case right from the start when she was just rescued that love and protection was in full mode. Adine provided little Kha with that nurturing way that only a mother could do. She was there during those difficult first months and has always been the driving force to help the little one to be what she's now

[@ReturnToNature927]

And here I am at 6 am bawling like a baby as I watch this. She was so little…. Her wounds so deep. She’s come so far. Adine you are an angel. I cannot believe khanyisa will be 3. I’ve been following since the day she came. Proud of this little peanut, and grateful for you all at herd. ❤️

[@lindahaney175]

My husband and I adopted Khanyisa early on and although he is losing his sight we have pictures on the wall of this cutest albino baby. Love seeing her. Thank you,❤️so much

[@Elizabeth-iw3wd]

So beautiful. Thank God for Adine, all the carers and vets 👏 Love you Khanyisa 🤗🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@smariegalski3641]

The love between those two is astounding.

[@grandpachas1267]

Bravo to Adine.....a truely wonderful hooman!

[@relax2dream164]

Touch is so important to elephants and I’m so glad Andine was there to hold onto our traumatized baby girl. They have a beautiful relationship; one built on trust and love!❤️❤️❤️🇨🇦

[@oummarwin3988]

Respect Adine❤️ and Love Khanysia, Limpopo and other ellies😍😍😍😘😘😘😘💋💋💋

[@maritia4577]

more adorable is impossible ♥♥

[@beroukhiaeliana2435]

Je ne sais pas quoi dire !je suis tellement admirative devant cette Dame ❤❤❤❤

[@WaterfallFW]

Beautiful moments with Adine mothering this glorious little orphan named Khanyisa. Khanyisa lives up to her name Sunshine! My favorite part is when Khanyisa greets Adine with rumbles and closes her eyes knowing she is loved.

[@jeanwalker8276]

So wonderful ♥️♥️♥️🐘🐘🐘

[@markflores40]

Never get tired of watching.Adine and Little Miss Princess "Sunshine " Meisiekind Khanyisa. As always a wonderful look back at this extraordinary journey. Thanks Adine and Khanyisa for sharing. Shout out to the Carers and Herd.

[@catalinamorey1281]

A very big, big THANK YOU for everything you do! Adine, carers, vets and all the people who put all their passion and love to give all these precious creatures a second chance! And for giving us the opportunity to enjoy it! 😊💚🐘🍀

[@mindmyown1]

I couldn’t agree more!! When I look at Khanyisa today what comes to mind is that this would not be possible had she not received BOTH the extraordinary care and LOVE that she received from this truly amazing team of caregivers and her human mama. And also her adoptive family of elephants too of course. Thank u all sooo much ❤

[@willdenny6953]

God bless these people for taking care of this beautiful elephant. God bless the care givers of the world.

[@lkrzzie]

Adine gets in there, like only a Mother could! Her bare hands, part of her clothing, etc., it doesn't matter. She & her baby are one. So good to see!

[@franciscosousa9753]

I really envy you, Adine! Lots of work, tremendous responsabilities, lots of set-backs, but, at the end, what a privilege!!!!!!

[@vickibowen5617]

What an incredibly beautiful bond between Adine and Khanyisa .... ♥️♥️♥️💞💞💞

[@marymcdonald5531]

Khanyisa loves Adine. She is very lucky to have the bond with her ❤️❤️

[@lathaaththu92]

Thank you for save this innocent 🐘🐘pls takecare 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🥰🥰🥰🥰🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@pierrettewalraevens3665]

Adine is such a Beautiful warm persoon with the Heart on the right place ,they way she is taking care of the elephant is so Heartwarming especially with Sweetheart Khanyisa but also with the herd who loves Adine so much ❤️🥰🐘🥰❤️ Bless you Adine and Bless this Amazing herd 🌹❤️🥰🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘🥰❤️

[@paulsamora1348]

The whole Khanyisa story with all involved is just remarkable. Thank you for sharing with all us who have been following from day one.

[@victorhayes9975]

THANK-YOU ADINE!!!Thank -you for this video.Those who are new too this journey of little Khanyisa welcome what a journey you will experience and never forget!!!!🥰💝🙏🙏🐘❤ usa.

[@nicolleandrade6462]

Absolutely beautiful 😍

[@jr7845]

Brings tears of happiness x

[@sueanderson-croft6268]

Huge hugs,kisses and lots of Thank you's to Adine, Carers, vets and all the rest of the Ele's for caring and loving the majestic Ele's 🥰🐘🥰🐘🥰🐘🥰🐘xx

[@catherinebreitfeller669]

So amazing & sweet.

[@carolinamoreno7372]

Boy, does Meisiekind adore you Adine. Those loving scenes between the two of you are heartwarming. She knows how you've been with her from day one. Elephants never ever forget... Khanyisa is just like any other 3 yr. old child. She's lucky to have 2 families, you and the Carers and her HERD. How fortunate for our little girl...Thanks for the great video.

[@theressamurphy2996]

wonderful woman, caretakers and beautiful elephant

[@ronnegold5037]

Another beautiful video of the relationship between Khanysia and Adine. Everyone at HERD has done a marvelous job with Khanysia as well as all the other ellies in the herd. There aren't enough words in the English language to describe how special and caring everyone at HERD is.

[@sharonott7513]

A very big thank you for caring for this little girl and not to mention her HERD of elephants. It takes a special person and group of people doing God's work.

[@thebusybee7080]

Very moving. So educational. I wish this video could be shown in many schools. You were her mother when she needed you most.

[@dianemorris5816]

You and the others are such good people, doing what you do is so badly needed. Thank you❤

[@annsmarpat9500]

Sometimes I think we forget just how miraculous this really is. @HERD I know a movie is in the making someday, someone will tell this story on the "big screen". The whole world needs to know about Meisiekind and the Jabulani Herd (and Adine and her Human Herd) And someone needs to recognize the women of conservation. They are slaying it🐘❤ !!! Oh and congratulations on over 75 thousand subscribers 🎉🎉

[@mariaestervieira7141]

Aiiiii! My heart!! Beautiful scenes of pure love! Thanks for not giving up on her! Aiiii!! Meu coração! Lindas cenas de puro amor!! Obrigada por não desistir dela. ❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@cheryldodd-marko9787]

THANK YOU...🕊🇺🇲💕

[@elenaburtasova1731]

СПАСИБО большое Adine и вашим помощникам! Какая любовь и благородство во всем. Люди с большой буквы!

[@jenisecoronado5555]

So beautiful and precious!

[@AniFam]

Adine is such a caring and lovely mom for Khanyisa~ awesome~💞 Thank you for sharing this video~🤗

[@suecash8186]

So so beautiful the love between that cute baby Khaynisa and Adine I never get enough of watching your vedio s thank with all my heart,it would be a dream come true to be like you

[@susanmorris5520]

WOW!! This video actually showed everything that I have always said and that is that Adine loves her Herd of elephants and with Khanyisa, Adine wasn’t gonna let this precious calf die and Adine gave her all the love, attention, and the Carers also did the same with Adine and Khanyisa felt that love and she was beginning to realize at the beginning of her care and new life at the HERD Orphanage that it was gonna be alright and that she was safe and loved too. Also, a lot of prayers all around the world for her survival too. Especially from me too day and night and also while I was even watching those early videos too when sweet Khanyisa was so sick and thin too. OMG!! Look at our Khanyisa now. She is a happy, joyful and free spirited growing elephant who has an awesome elephant family who took her in as their own. This is why I keep coming back so I can see her grow up. I love this little girl and I do thank you Adine and Carers too for being there for her and letting her know she is loved all the time. Just like Fishon and his leg and Jabulani and his wound from a fight, they showed you so much trust and know they too are safe. Hugs, love, and many of God’s blessings to you alł and the Herd too. Sue M. (Florida, USA)❤️🙏🏻🌼😊🥰😘🌸🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘🐘❌⭕️❌⭕️👍

[@robinartemis8695]

She loves you :)

[@kennethmarks1625]

Claudette: So heart warming To see this! Adine 's face looks so loving and happy when she is being with Khanyisa-- It is a joy to behold and feel 💖

[@karenstafford724]

Such a heartwarming friendship ❤️ 💕 💖 💗 💓 ♥️

[@SweetUniverse]

Sweet and funny! I wonder if khanyisa can feel Adine's good heart? 😊❤️❤️

[@elainepeterson475]

Hello Adine, Herd carers, Khanyisa, and all Jabulani Herd.

[@cathycarsilli3999]

Very moving

[@pandapath]

These are also the most beautiful moments in my life. I love elephants too!

[@donnasteffen8141]

She is such a sweet little girl 🥰

[@suecash8186]

I just love watching all the vedio of Adine and Khanyisa ❤❤❤❤

[@neliaferreira9311]

Love ya!! Khanyisa is só lovely!!❤❤❤

[@gemzoey1313]

Adine, your love and dedication to Khanyisa is so beautiful! Thank you so much for all that you and the carers at HERD have done for her and all the other elephants.🙏❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@herdelephantorphanage]

Thank you so much!

[@sheilagadde5975]

Her baby elephant COOING and Sweet Baby talk and kisses while Cuddling with Adine. Precious Moments.

[@richardjohnson5529]

Khanyisa has come a long way thanks to you all at HERD

[@michaelthompson3420]

It is beautiful the love these two have for each other. It reminds me of the love I had for my Great Dane. I loved that dog more then most people. We were inseparable.

[@ruthbrewer466]

Whoever is putting together these nostalgia videos is just rocking it! I love them and they are well done.

[@judithhombsch1535]

You are a real mother to her. It is wonderful that you dedicated ❤️ your time and love to Khanyisa giving her the basis of what life should be. Like a child the first years are so important for development. Heartfelt gratitude to you 🙏 ❤️ 💖

[@donnacardiff2031]

So beautiful to see such love between a human and elephant. Adine is an exceptional woman with a huge heart.

[@audreybunyan1493]

Happy days with baby Khanyisa. ❤❤❤❤❤

[@debbie7526]

my kitten is watching this and he's intrigued with Khanyisa

[@TheErik249]

If I worked at the HERD facility I would be spoiling those Elephants rotten. Good work Adine.

[@wendyjack4532]

What a wonderful bond Adine and Khanyisa have developed over the last three years. It must be highly fulfilling to be able to relate this closely to an elephant and to know that you have helped the elephant on such a deep level.

[@meikebolling9884]

🤩Wow das ist schön streicheln umarmen Khanysia mit Frau Herzen Glück 🍀 👩 toll ❤️💖🐾🐘❤️😘🇩🇪

[@lindaredwood-kahn2729]

Mere words cannot express the beauty and depth of their connection. 💙💜💙💋💋🐘💋💋💙💜💙

[@cjcooksey4178]

❤❤❤

[@ftc22]

I watched again. Adine you are amazing! Thank you for your love and compassion.

[@luisa.melendezalbizu4459]

To Adine Roode, the Mother of Elephants. Thank you for showing the world how to love and care for these wonderful elephants. Your love for Khanyisa is really very special and inspirational.

[@allisoncompeaux3981]

Incredibly special ❤.

[@helenabiesma5560]

Incredible moments love it 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰

[@sheilagadde5975]

Wonderful to have true Love and Devotion. Adine and each Wonderful Caretaker are teaching her about being a member of this Precious Family.

[@debraarnold3703]

When Khanyisa laid down to go to sleep when she was very little, with the help of Adine. "Nite nite, Khanyisa." God bless you all for saving her and the others.

[@marjoriehopkins1630]

Now that is REAL love!

[@dorothyrobdau7365]

The beginnings of a beautiful life. Nice work Adine, and all of the carers and vets to make Khanyisa's recovery possible, both physical and emotional. Thank you all @ HERD

[@tessadevincy523]

GRACIAS ADINE POR CUIDAR Y AMAR A KANIZA..💖💖👏👏👏

[@maryberkey3760]

Mother and Child👱‍♀️🐘❤️💗💚😇🙏 BEAUTIFUL💞

[@maureen8992]

I am crying with love with such a heartwarming story!

[@evelyne7071]

So sweet !

[@familymajor]

I LOVE your BOND with Khanyisa ❤ And now you have a new baby boy to care for! Blessings 🙏🏻

[@Aurinkohirvi]

Back then it felt terible how hurt she was. But now watching the videos it feels good, that all that was healed and she grew up as a healthy elephant and a herd member.