Anticipation of the Unknown
– Steven Kiley
It’s approaching 3 weeks in the African bush and I’m happy to report that our group still has a variety of activities yet to accomplish. Coming to Africa from the mid-west of the United States brought a slightly significant culture shock, but I quickly adapted to the unpredictable routine of being at a game reserve. This routine of bush life has begun to grow on me, and every day is more and more fascinating.
From experiencing an anti-poaching overnight shift in the biting cold of winter, to a brief professional cinematography course, there have been many of great experiences here so far at Entabeni Game Reserve. These experiences have also tested me physically and mentally. For instance, during the night, our group sat in a safari vehicle for several hours overlooking the entire reserve. As I sat in the frigid, still darkness of the South African winter night staring out to an obscure landscape, I continuously played the image of the rhino calf over and over in my head with his mom. At that moment I realized that mother’s life could be saved because of me. For that alone, I am thankful to directly help save the endangered rhinoceros in any way possible.
One aspect of this adventure that has caught my attention is the dedication of Elise Daffue, founder of StopRhinoPoaching.com, and Dex Kotze, owner of Jenna Clifford Jewelry. They have dedicated themselves to stop rhino poaching. I admire the tenacity of Elise and Dex to help end the rhinos’ plight.