As we mark six wonderful years of partnership with the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, we’re overjoyed to announce that we’ve adopted every elephant under the Trust's care and ongoing protection - 322 and counting!
From Elizabeth’s very first visit to the Trust’s nursery to our latest collections, each elephant accessory is inspired by the stories of hope, resilience and survival that brought these elephants into the Trust's care. Meet the real orphans behind your favourite designs…
Vaarti
"A ray of sunshine in elephant form"
Vaarti had an unexpected introduction to the Sheldrick Trust in 2019, when a wild female elephant strode up to the stockades with a newborn calf in tow. To the Keepers' surprise, the unknown female was far too young to be the calf’s mother and unable to produce milk. It was very clear from Vaarti’s weakened and thin appearance that the calf hadn’t fed for several days, this brave female had come to the stockades with the intention of delivering the calf into safe hands. Today, Vaarti or ‘luck’ in the language of the local Kamba tribe, is a ray of sunshine in elephant form, bringing joy to everyone in his orbit.
Bondeni
"A famous mischief-maker"
Just 6 years old, little Bondeni has journeyed far for an ele so young. His story with the SWT began when he was just a newborn, found wandering into a village with his feet covered in lacerations from jagged lava slopes. With no elephant herds sighted in the vicinity, it’s uncertain how he ended up alone. Rescued by KWS rangers and the Sheldrick aerial team, he is now safely located at the Ithumba Reintegration Unit. Here he will continue to find his footing and, when he is ready, continue his journey back to the wild. Until that time, Bondeni is happily flourishing among the fellow orphans and Keepers who he already considers family.
Korbessa
"A tiny force of nature. The cleverest - and bossiest - personality in the herd"
Just days old, little Korbessa’s journey began when she fell into a deep well in the remote Korbesa region near Meru National Park. Discovered at first light by KWS rangers, the calf was rescued and cared for by the SWT/KWS Meru Vet Unit, who quickly realised she had been abandoned. Despite her difficult start, she instantly captured hearts at the Kaluku Neonate Nursery with her feisty personality. From bossing around her ‘big brother’ Toto to charming her Keepers, especially her devoted carer Joseph - she’s proved to be a determined little fighter.
Now thriving, Korbessa - affectionately known as ‘little frog’ - is famous for her love of greens and quirky frog-like habits, including belly-flopping in the mud! Though her start in life was uncertain, one thing is clear: this confident little calf has a bright future ahead.
Toto
"One of our most heartfelt success stories"
Orphaned just days after birth, Toto was discovered by a herd of former orphans who led him directly to Sheldrick Wildlife Trust’s Ithumba Reintegration Unit - clearly recognising the vulnerable newcomer needed help. Weak and deprived of milk, the tiny calf arrived in fragile condition. However thanks to the dedicated care of his keepers, Joseph and Sammy, he has quickly blossomed into one of the nursery’s most spirited personalities! Today, his favourite activities include climbing on his friends Mwinzi and Natibu, afternoon naps in the shade, and evening walks on the airstrip.
Thank you for joining our journey
Each and every accessory makes a real difference. Your orders help fund everything from milk bottles to keeper salaries, veterinary treatments and the round-the-clock care and essentials these orphans need to thrive. By adopting these orphans, we’re not only supporting their recovery but also protecting the wild habitats they will one day return to.
Shop & support our Elephant conservation collections today - and together let’s paint a golden future for this beautiful species and the places they call home.
Shimmering with hope, love & purpose
Read More
Saving Elephants Together | Postcards from Kenya | Protecting Turtle Hatchlings
