Introduction

What inspires someone to leave behind a comfortable life and dedicate themselves to educating children and caring for wildlife in rural South Africa?

In this candid interview, DAKTARI founder Michèle Merrifield reflects on the moments that shaped her journey—from the chance encounter that inspired DAKTARI’s creation to the challenges, sacrifices, and personal experiences that kept her moving forward. Through stories of resilience, compassion, and purpose, she shares the values that continue to connect children with nature and protect the wildlife they will one day help conserve.

Question 1: How did you get the idea to create DAKTARI?

Ian and I were running a restaurant in Hoedspruit when we met a local boy who always waved at me as he walked past. During the school holidays, we invited him and his friends to visit an animal rehabilitation centre. Watching these children see a lion, giraffe, leopard, and hippo for the first time, I realised that although they lived near game reserves, many local children had never experienced wildlife before. I could see their eyes sparkling with excitement. At that moment, I understood that people cannot protect what they do not know or benefit from. Instead of blaming local communities for not caring about wildlife, we needed to allow them to learn about it and connect with it. That is why we created DAKTARI Bush School & Wildlife Orphanage.

Question 2: If DAKTARI was a movie, what would the opening scene be?

The opening scene would be a local child feeding a baby antelope with a bottle of milk. It reflects the same nurturing instinct that a mother has for her child. I believe this would be the perfect opening scene because it represents what DAKTARI is all about: compassion, responsibility, and giving every living being a chance to thrive.

Question 3: Was there ever a moment when you felt completely out of your comfort zone?

Yes, the hardest came after five years when we completely ran out of money. I remember sitting on this terrace crying, trying to find new homes for my dogs because I thought I would lose everything, even my house. I considered finding a job, but at the time, my English was still limited. Then I thought about the local community and the children. Whenever they faced a problem related to animals or the environment, they always came to us for help. At that moment, I realised I could not let them down. I prayed and said, “God, you brought me from France for a reason. Now, please help me through this.” A week later, we received the biggest donation we had ever received through the National Lotteries of South Africa. It saved us. That period was terrifying because I thought I was going to let them all down, and that was incredibly difficult for me.

Question 4: What is a secret that most people do not know about DAKTARI?

I do not think many people know that I am living with and have survived cancer. DAKTARI has been the reason I keep fighting.

Question 5: Why did Caline (Hyrax) completely surprise you with her personality?

I met Caline when she was very young, and when the time came to release her, she chose to stay. She loves lying on my desk and sleeping on my chest at night. She has become my therapist: Whenever I am feeling down, she seems to know and comes to comfort me, sometimes even licking my face. I love her so much. Living so closely with a wild animal creates a unique connection. You begin to understand their emotions and behaviour, and they seem to understand yours as well. She is truly my comfort zone.

Question 6: If you could keep one specific memory in a box, which one would you choose?

The memory I would keep in that box is the moment when I was living in France and had to choose between staying in my comfortable life, building my career, and keeping everything familiar, or leaving it all behind to move to South Africa with a man I had met and try my luck in a completely new life. It was a very difficult decision, but I remember thinking that I did not want to spend the rest of my life wondering what would have happened if I had gone. I told myself that even if I failed, I would stand up again. Looking back, it was the best decision I have ever made and one of the greatest memories of my life.

Question 7: What is your biggest regret?

My biggest regret is not having had the opportunity to meet Brigitte Bardot in person. I would also have loved to meet Nelson Mandela. Having a cup of coffee with either of them would have been an incredible experience.

Epilogue

From leaving a comfortable life in France to building a wildlife and education centre in South Africa, Michèle Merrifield’s journey has been shaped by compassion, resilience, and an unwavering belief that people will protect what they understand and value. Along the way, she has faced financial hardship, personal health challenges, and countless obstacles, yet her commitment to the children, animals, and communities she serves has never wavered.

As Michèle’s story reminds us, one decision, one act of kindness, and one dream can create a lasting impact on countless lives. The story of DAKTARI is still being written, and its greatest chapters may yet lie ahead.