Fourways residents Kyle Malyon and Lauren Lewis will set off on an unusual journey on August 12, World Elephant Day.

The two will be travelling from Johannesburg to Jabulani, in Kapama Game Reserve, home to the Herd Trust, using a variety of modes of transport to shine a spotlight on elephant conservation. 

They will begin their journey at Doppio Zero, Bel Air Mall in Northriding at 07:30, travelling approximately 600km in a single day by skateboard, Gautrain bus and train, classic cars, motorcycles, and other unique vehicles before arriving at Herd, where they will present a cheque to support the care of orphaned elephants.

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The initiative follows Malyon’s 2024 solo circumnavigation of South Africa, known as The Mammoth Ride, which also raised awareness and funds for Herd.

Inspired to do something even bigger, he teamed up with Lewis to create the ‘Joburg to Jabulani by Any Means’ campaign. 

“We wanted to create awareness in a way that people would remember,” said Malyon.

“Anyone can drive to Kapama, but travelling by different means of transport creates conversations, highlights those who have supported us, and showcases our beautiful country.”

The campaign supports the Herd Trust, South Africa’s first dedicated elephant orphanage, established in 2019 to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned elephant calves before integrating them into the Jabulani herd.

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So far, fundraising events have raised close to R20 000, with organisers hoping to add a further R25 000 through their BackaBuddy campaign.  Malyon thanked everyone who has already donated, including Springbok rugby player Faf de Klerk, but he said the campaign is about more than fundraising.

“Elephants face threats from poaching, habitat loss, and human/elephant conflict. Young orphaned elephants often struggle to survive without their families, and Herd gives them a second chance by providing them with a new herd.”

Community members can support the campaign by donating to the fundraiser, or directly through the Herd Trust, adopting an elephant through the organisation, or following the journey on Instagram at @joburgtojabulanibyanymeans.

Those with unique vehicles willing to assist with the final leg of the journey are also encouraged to get in touch with Malyon at 082 447 5661.

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