LIMPOPO – At just 24 years old, Anya MacKenzie, assistant animal curator at the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre (HESC), has already made a meaningful impact on the lives of endangered animals, especially the orphaned rhinos she helps raise.

MacKenzie, who joined HESC in February 2023, holds a degree in zoology and tourism from North-West University. Her journey to the centre began when a neighbour, who had worked with the founder’s late husband, recommended she apply. Although there were no positions available at first, she was called for an interview two weeks later and started immediately.

“When I joined, I had the privilege of raising my first rhino calf, Peter,” she told the Herald. “At first, it was intimidating. I’m small, and you need to be strong to handle a rhino calf. But over time, I learned his behaviour, when he was hungry, needy, or just wanted affection.”

For six months, MacKenzie slept on turf bales beside Peter, who would often snuggle up to her in the middle of the night. “He was bigger than me, so I’d have to move my bedding, and he’d follow,” she laughed.

Now working with two other rhino calves, Angie and Eve, alongside another assistant curator, MacKenzie, describes the experience as rewarding and humbling. “I’ve always said, ‘I am the voice for the animals.’ They can’t speak for themselves, and we must protect and care for them.”

Before focussing solely on animal care, she also guided tours at HESC. “Most visitors are amazed at what we do here. Many don’t realise the challenges we face, and they leave asking how they can help.”

She said that donations are vital to the centre’s operations, especially for feeding the animals and maintaining infrastructure like fencing. “Without financial support, we couldn’t do what we do.”

When it comes time for the animals to be rewilded, MacKenzie admits it’s an emotional moment.

“Peter has grown and is now with other rhinos. He doesn’t recognise me like he used to, but sometimes he stares at me, and I know he remembers. It’s bittersweet, but that’s where they belong.”

For MacKenzie, every moment spent with the animals is a chance to advocate for their future. “It’s not what I pictured before starting this job, it’s even better. I love it.”