Helping Rhinos is a leading international conservation organization dedicated to the protection and preservation of rhinoceros species and their habitats. Established by Simon Jones, a former business professional turned conservationist, the organization has become known for its innovative approaches to tackling the poaching crisis and supporting sustainable development in rhino range countries. Jones began his journey in wildlife conservation after a transformative trip to South Africa, where he witnessed firsthand the threats facing rhinos. Motivated to make a meaningful impact, he founded Helping Rhinos in 2012. The organization started as a volunteer-driven initiative but quickly evolved, building strong collaborations with local conservationists, communities, and international partners.
Through its decade of work, Helping Rhinos has focused on a multi-faceted strategy. This includes anti-poaching operations, habitat restoration, community engagement, and education programs. The organization’s efforts extend beyond direct rhino protection. They also address the broader challenges of biodiversity loss and community livelihoods. By leveraging modern technology, supporting orphaned rhinos, and promoting a holistic approach to conservation, Helping Rhinos has established itself as a trusted voice in wildlife protection. Their work has not only contributed to the survival of rhino populations but also inspired new models of partnership between NGOs, governments, and private stakeholders. As the threats to rhinos continue to evolve, Helping Rhinos remains committed to adapting its strategies and amplifying its impact.
We recently had the opportunity to connect with Simon Jones about the journey of Helping Rhinos, the organization’s founding principles, and the key lessons learned along the way.
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Can you share the origins of Helping Rhinos and what inspired the organization’s founding?
The journey began after a visit to South Africa in 2010, where I witnessed first-hand the scale of the poaching crisis and the impact it was having on rhino populations. Seeing the urgency, I felt compelled to act rather than stand by. I founded Helping Rhinos in 2012 with a focus on providing practical support to those on the front lines, starting with fundraising and awareness in the UK, and then expanding our partnerships in Africa.
What were some of the early challenges you faced in establishing Helping Rhinos?
In the early days, one of the biggest challenges was building trust with established conservationists and organizations already working in the sector. As an outsider and someone coming from a non-conservation background, there was skepticism. Fundraising was also tough, as rhino conservation was not as high profile in the UK at the time. We had to prove our commitment, be transparent, and deliver on our promises to build credibility.
How did your previous career and experiences influence your approach to conservation?
My background in the corporate world helped shape our approach significantly. I was used to problem-solving, working with data, and thinking about systems. We try to bring that same analytical and innovative mindset to conservation, whether it’s applying new technology to anti-poaching patrols or developing data-driven strategies for rhino protection. It’s about being adaptable and willing to learn from both success and failure.
What distinguishes Helping Rhinos from other conservation organizations?
Helping Rhinos is known for our collaborative ethos and our willingness to support grassroots initiatives. We prioritize partnerships with local organizations and communities, believing that the people closest to the problem are often best placed to solve it. We also place a strong emphasis on education and on creating a holistic approach—protecting rhinos means looking at the entire ecosystem, including people.
Can you describe a pivotal moment in Helping Rhinos’ development?
A key moment was forming partnerships with like-minded organizations in South Africa. This allowed us to channel funds directly to effective projects and to support orphan rhino sanctuaries. Another pivotal step was launching our education programs, which extended our impact beyond just anti-poaching and involved local youth and communities in conservation.
What role does community engagement play in your conservation model?
Community engagement is central. Conservation cannot succeed without the support of local people. We work to provide education, employment opportunities, and support to those living alongside rhinos. By involving communities, we help foster a sense of stewardship and shared responsibility for wildlife.
How has technology influenced your anti-poaching and conservation strategies?
Technology is an indispensable tool. We use tracking systems, surveillance equipment, and data analysis to monitor rhino movements and predict potential threats. Technology also helps us measure the effectiveness of our efforts and enables real-time responses to incidents, making anti-poaching work more efficient.
What are some of the most important lessons you have learned since founding Helping Rhinos?
Perhaps the most important lesson is the power of perseverance. Conservation work is a long-term commitment, and progress can be slow. Building trust, being flexible, and learning from setbacks are crucial. Collaboration is another key—no one organization can solve these challenges alone.
How do you measure success in your conservation efforts?
We look at a range of indicators: reductions in poaching incidents, growth in rhino populations where we work, and the number of local people engaged in conservation programs. Success is also about sustainability—ensuring that projects can continue without ongoing outside intervention.
What advice would you give to others hoping to make an impact in wildlife conservation?
Start by listening and learning as much as you can from those already working in the field. Be prepared to commit for the long term and to face setbacks. Most of all, find your passion and use your skills—conservation needs all kinds of talents, not just scientists or rangers.
Continuing our conversation about the expertise, achievements, and future vision of Helping Rhinos, we delved deeper into the organization’s approach, impact, and aspirations for rhino conservation.
Could you elaborate on the unique expertise that Helping Rhinos brings to rhino conservation efforts?
Our expertise lies in identifying where our support can make the most difference. We have developed strong analytical skills over the years, which help us evaluate potential projects for their sustainability and impact. We also have significant experience in building partnerships across sectors—connecting NGOs, governments, and private entities to address challenges holistically. Our team brings a diverse range of skills, from technology and fundraising to community development and communications, which allows us to be agile in responding to emerging needs.
What have been some of the organization’s most significant achievements to date?
We are proud to have supported the rescue and rehabilitation of almost 50 orphaned rhinos, many of whom have been successfully reintroduced into the wild. Our partnerships have helped establish new protected areas and bolster anti-poaching patrols, leading to measurable reductions in poaching incidents in key regions. Our education initiatives have reached thousands of children and adults, increasing awareness and fostering a new generation of conservation advocates. We’ve also played a role in influencing policy discussions and building support for stronger wildlife protection measures.
In terms of collaboration, how does Helping Rhinos work with other organizations and stakeholders?
Collaboration is at the heart of our approach. We work closely with local NGOs, reserve managers, community groups, and international bodies. Each partnership is based on mutual trust and shared goals. We also facilitate knowledge exchange and capacity-building, ensuring that best practices are shared and resources are used efficiently. These collaborations allow us to amplify our impact and address complex challenges from multiple angles.
How does Helping Rhinos balance immediate anti-poaching needs with long-term conservation goals?
We strive to balance urgent action with strategic planning. On the front lines, we support anti-poaching teams with equipment, training, and intelligence. At the same time, we invest in habitat restoration, education, and community projects that will provide sustainable benefits in the long run. Our approach recognizes that true conservation success means creating conditions where both rhinos and people can thrive well into the future.
What role does education play in shaping the next generation of conservationists?
Education is one of our core pillars. By reaching young people with engaging programs, we aim to inspire lifelong respect for wildlife and the environment. We run school outreach initiatives, youth ambassador schemes, and community workshops, both in Africa and internationally. These efforts help foster a deeper understanding of conservation challenges and empower future leaders to take action.
Are there any emerging threats or trends that the organization is preparing to address?
Yes, wildlife crime is evolving, and poachers are using increasingly sophisticated methods. Climate change is also impacting rhino habitats and food sources. We are investing in research and technology to stay ahead of these trends, and we’re strengthening our partnerships to respond to new threats as they arise. Adaptability is crucial in this work, as the landscape is constantly changing.
How does Helping Rhinos ensure the welfare of orphaned and rehabilitated rhinos?
We work with specialist sanctuaries that provide expert care for rhino calves orphaned by poaching. The focus is on giving them a chance to grow, develop natural behaviors, and ultimately return to the wild when possible. Our support covers everything from veterinary care to security and monitoring post-release. Each case is unique, and we tailor our approach to ensure the best outcomes for each animal.
What is your vision for the future of rhino conservation, both for Helping Rhinos and the species as a whole?
Our vision is for rhino populations to recover and thrive in the wild without constant human intervention. We aim to see communities benefiting from conservation and actively participating in rhino protection. For Helping Rhinos, we plan to expand our impact, reach more regions, and continue innovating in our approach. Ultimately, success will be measured by the resilience of rhino populations and the strength of ecosystems that support them.
How can people and organizations best support Helping Rhinos in achieving these goals?
Support can take many forms: donations, volunteering, spreading awareness, or forming corporate partnerships. Every contribution, big or small, can make a difference. We encourage people to learn more about rhino conservation, engage with our campaigns, and consider how their own skills might help. Collaboration and collective action are key.
As you look ahead, what are the immediate next steps and priorities for Helping Rhinos?
Our immediate focus is on maintaining and expanding our support for anti-poaching and orphan care programs, especially as threats intensify. We’re also developing new educational materials and strengthening our community projects. Building resilience, both for rhinos and the people who protect them, will be central to our work in the coming years.
Looking Ahead
Helping Rhinos continues to play a vital role in the global effort to protect rhinoceros populations through innovation, education, and meaningful collaboration. As challenges evolve, the organization remains committed to balancing urgent responses with long-term vision. We would like to thank Simon Jones for sharing his insights and experience with our readers.
