20 January 2026
In 2016, the world looked very different — and so did life for our oldest rhino girl, Shinkwe.
January of that year marked a defining and heartbreaking moment in her journey. Shinkwe survived a poaching attempt after being shot in the shoulder. Because she was found quickly, she was able to receive emergency treatment, followed by months of ongoing care to fight a severe infection that developed as a result of her injuries.
Content warning: Images later in this post contain graphic content related to Shinkwe’s injury.
Today, however, we do not reflect on that moment with sadness alone. Instead, we stand in gratitude, pride, and deep respect for the strength and resilience Shinkwe has shown over the past decade.
💚 For 10 years, Shinkwe has been protected.
💚 For 10 years, she has remained safe.
💚 For 10 years, she has continued her legacy.
Shinkwe is more than a survivor. She is a mother, a grandmother, and the true matriarch of Insimbi. Her presence on the reserve represents everything conservation stands for — perseverance, protection, and the long-term commitment required to ensure that rhinos not only survive, but thrive.
This story is our own version of the 10-year challenge. It is a reminder of what is possible when conservation is consistent, when protection never wavers, and when a community comes together for a shared purpose.
To every supporter, donor, adopter, ranger, and team member who has played a role in keeping Shinkwe and her crash safe — thank you. Your dedication has made these ten years possible.
🧡 A special thank you to everyone who has adopted Shinkwe over the years and walked this journey alongside her. Your support has helped ensure that she continues to live a protected life, free to fulfil her role as the matriarch she was always meant to be.
If you would like to support Insimbi or contribute towards protecting rhinos like Shinkwe, any donation — big or small — truly makes a difference.
👉 https://pay.ikhokha.com/…/donation/insimbilegacyprojects
If you would like to adopt Shinkwe, please get in touch with us — we would love to welcome you into her story. 🤍
Here’s to 10 years of resilience, and to many more years of protection, strength, and hope. 🦏💚
