A few words
About Us
OUR ROOTS, OUR RESILIENCE
The Raising Rhino Rands Story
The journey of Raising Rhino Rands began with founder Tania Oosthuizen’s deep passion for people and rhinos. The original inspiration came from her son, Bernardo, whose connection with wildlife spurred the entire vision. Tania realised that her talent for creation offered a powerful, direct way to fund the saving and rehabilitation of orphaned rhinos.
Once upon a time, just over 14 years ago, a little boy was born into this beautiful, tough world of ours. His parents named him Bernardo, meaning “strong as a bear,” which was so apt for this little guy. Yet, at heart, he was a true gentle giant, like his father and the rhinos he later came to love.
His connection to rhinos was immediate. As a toddler, he and his father would play “kap hom met die kop,” and with his mom, he would give “Rhino kisses” — moments of deep, loving connection. He became their little Baby Rhino.
Bernardo’s love for rhinos and stuffed toys led his mother to learn more, filling her with delight, but also deep sadness. She learned the devastating truth: these beautiful creatures are hunted, leaving babies dead or dying next to their savagely butchered mothers.
Desperate to find a way to make a lasting impact, Tania realized she could use her time, her talent, and her commitment to create change. “I am dedicating Raising Rhino Rands to selling the craft so that the money may be raised to contribute towards saving, caring, and rehabilitating little baby rhinos who remind me so much of my son.”
Her core philosophy became the guide for the entire Organisation: “Do what you love and they will love what you do.”
Tania’s dedication to this dual mission – creating, teaching, and donating – is stronger than ever. This commitment led to the natural formation of our current small, dedicated team. We are a group of ladies who have found profound connection and purpose through our shared mission. Our work is focused on empowering local women and providing a direct, heartfelt contribution to conservation.
OUR DEDICATED TEAM
Meet the Hands Behind the Rhinos
Tania Oosthuizen
FOUNDER & CHAIRPERSON
Tania is the passionate heart behind Raising Rhino Rands. Her commitment to conservation began with a personal connection to rhinos, inspiring her to use her talents to make a tangible difference. She drives the dual mission: empowering local women through creation while fundraising for the urgent protection of orphaned rhinos.
Ncediwe Nyeba (Ncesh)
WORKSHOP MAMA
Ncesh is an invaluable and dedicated member of the team, serving as the Workshop Mama. She manages the creation process and assists in the hands-on training of our rural women, ensuring quality and passion are stitched into every single rhino and new product we make.
Molly
WORKSHOP ASSISTANT
Molly is a gentle, beautiful soul who takes great pride in her work and approaches every task with a deep love for learning. A self-described perfectionist, she pours exceptional care into every rhino she crafts, ensuring each one is made with heart and attention to detail.
Although she has been with us for less than a year, Molly is already becoming one of our cherished “workshop mammas” — someone Tania can truly rely on. Her kindness, dedication, and growing confidence make her an invaluable part of the Raising Rhino Rands family.
Gloria
Workshop Mamma & Quality Lead
Gloria has worked alongside Tania for many years, and this year we were blessed to welcome her fully into the Raising Rhino Rands team. She oversees all our checking and stuffing, ensuring every rhino is perfectly prepared before it begins its journey to its new home.
Gloria is all heart — she cares deeply for the people around her and has a natural gift for leadership. It shines through in the way she gently guides, supports, and encourages everyone in the workshop. Our little workspace is often filled with the shared chatter of our hearts, from sorrows to joys, and Gloria is always the one ready to listen, uplift, and love each person through it.
She is the steady, compassionate centre of our workshop family, and we couldn’t imagine this journey without her.
REMEMBERING YOLISWA MDODA
In Loving Memory
We remember Yoliswa Mdoda with immense love and gratitude. Yoliswa contributed greatly to the workshop chatter and spirit and remains a beloved member of the Raising Rhino Rands family. We honor her dedication to the craft and her connection to our mission.
PAST TEAM MEMBERS
Thank You
We also extend our sincere gratitude to Paul Roux and Lara Minne for their passion, commitment, and dedication to the Organisation during its foundational years.
