Ngao

NGAO

Under the protective shadow of her mother's massive frame, the little calf finds solace and security.

Ngao means “the shield” in Swahli.

At first, she hesitated, casting uncertain glances in our direction. Her delicate snout delicately sampled the air as she nestled closer to the immense, sturdy side of her guardian. While her mother grazed undisturbed, fully aware of our presence, the calf remained ever near. Minutes before she had ventured toward us in a fleeting moment, emitting short bursts of alarm through her snorts. Bewilderment crossed her face as we remained motionless and silent. Torn between curiosity and caution, she eventually retreated to the safety of her mother's side. Now, she felt somewhat safer, yet her inquisitive gaze lingered upon us as we sat silently, observing.

As the African sky began its descent into the embrace of dusk, casting its final hues across the horizon, the clouds gathered, obscuring the fading light. Sensing the approaching night, the rhino pair slowly moved towards the refuge of the dense thickets. Their massive bodies swayed with each step, gracefully navigating the terrain that lay before them.

Their departure left us with an indelible image—a tender nudge exchanged between mother and calf. The female rhino led the way, venturing deeper into the bush, while the little one, pressed securely against her side, maintained a steady pace. In the span of mere minutes, these extraordinary moments transformed into cherished memories. Though our time with them felt like an eternity, it was just a fleeting interlude.

These sightings hold a profound significance, for the rhino population dwindles with each passing day. While there still remain pockets of refuge for these majestic creatures, we are acutely aware of the multitude of challenges that threaten their very existence. Not too long ago, a myriad of rhino species roamed the earth, their magnificence undeniable. Yet today, they teeter on the precipice of extinction, relentlessly hunted into oblivion. Our encounter served as a stark reminder that these precious moments may soon become relics of the past. So it is our duty as custodians of this planet, as inhabitants of this shared ecosystem, to bear witness to these creatures' plight. Humanity must recognise the irreplaceable loss that looms before us, for the rhinos embody a beauty and resilience that we can ill afford to forfeit.

RAW AFRICA COLLECTION

Welcome to Africa - the wise, the restless, and the life giving.

This soulful land of dreamers gives rise to the underbelly of a beautiful, gentle beat that is only heard by those who listen for it. This photographic journey explores, profiles, and captures what I hope is the heart and soul of Africa's true wilderness kingdom. From its deep bush to its dry savannah and desert, Africa remains a place where life is represented by timeless vistas that are distilled into moments to treasure.