33 Chimps and a Journey of Care

MPhD 25

I have always been passionate about animals, and after visiting conservation centers in several countries, I became deeply concerned about endangered species. Among them, chimpanzees, our closest living relatives, face growing threats. Native to West and Central Africa, they are endangered due to habitat loss, disease, hunting, and the illegal pet trade.

To raise awareness, I volunteered at Chimp Eden, a Jane Goodall Institute sanctuary in South Africa. There, I documented daily life and cared for 33 rescued chimpanzees. 33 Chimps and a Journey of Care is a visual project that hopes to inspire compassion and action for endangered wildlife.

Tutors

Natasha Christia Pedro Vicente Arianna Rinaldo Marta Dahó

Collaborators

Chimp Eden

Meet Cozy

Origin: Born in the U.S. laboratory

Arrived: 2006

Cozy was bred in a U.S. laboratory and later sold to an Italian owner who forced him to perform, subjecting him to severe abuse, including castration and repeated head trauma. After years confined in a small cage, he was rescued and brought to Chimp Eden in 2006. While his health has improved, brain damage limits his mobility, and he now spends much of his time relaxing on his favorite wooden platform. Cozy often displays by clapping, running, and tossing objects during tour hours. He has a big appetite, with tomatoes being his absolute favorite, and shares a close bond with his companion, Zeena.

Meet Jessica

Origin: South Africa

Role: Alpha Female

Arrived: 2006

Jessica arrived at Chimp Eden in 2006 with her companion, Charles, after being rescued from circuses and private zoos where she was used for breeding. The repeated loss of her infants led her to self-harm by plucking out her own hair. Today, despite her past, Jessica is a calm, confident leader. She especially enjoys tour days with enrichment and treats, and her intelligence makes her a key figure in the group.

Meet Tamu

Origin: South Sudan (smuggled from Congo)

Role: Alpha Male

Arrived: 2008

Tamu was smuggled into South Sudan after his mother was killed by poachers in the Congo and was later rescued by the Sudanese military. He arrived at Chimp Eden in 2008 with six other orphaned infants. Energetic and curious, Tamu loves swinging, enrichment, and food. He’s known for stirring up playful chaos, adding charm and liveliness to his group.

Meet Nina

Origin: South Sudan

Role: Alpha Female

Arrived: 2007

Nina was rescued from bushmeat hunters in South Sudan and arrived at Chimp Eden in 2007 with four other orphaned infants. She has grown into the alpha female of her group, known for her strength, confidence, and playful spirit. After a birth control implant failed, she gave birth to Thabu and has raised him with remarkable care. Nina thrives on social interaction, isn’t afraid to stir up a little drama, and always commands attention. Her closest companion is Dinka.