If, on a rare occasion and peaceful night, you are privileged enough to be in Riana’s company when and if she speaks about how Cheetah Experience started, you cannot help but to be amazed at the selflessness, courage, passion and dedication that started what is Cheetah Experience today.  When you look at her and Fiela lying so peacefully together, one cannot help but to wonder about the memories that they must be sharing. They come from days where the only certain thing was the fact that they had each other. The rest was in God’s hands.   And if you look into Fiela’s eyes, you cannot help to wonder if she had any idea, or awareness, of what it took to get to where they are today. And if at night, you are awaken by a soft wet Cheetah nose sniffing your face, you cannot help to wonder if she is telling you that you should not worry, they will take care of you as they do for 34 other animals today.  And if you see Riana walking around, almost always in the background and always with the wellbeing of the animals the foremost thing on her mind, you cannot help to wonder if this woman realises that she is a real life hero to man and animal alike. But mostly, you cannot help to be amazed at God’s patient and caring hand in it all. One thing is for sure, the world and these animals would have been worse off if not for these two wonderful creations of God. Together, they have changed the future of many animals and the life’s of many people. Riana will be the first to tell you that “dankie” (thank you) is such a short word and totally inadequate to express their gratefulness for what they have received and are receiving. Well Riana, the feeling is mutual. The word certainly is too short to express what we want to say to you. The meaning however, goes deeper than what any words can ever describe!

 On this day, Nonyx came out of his enclosure with his heart filled with joy and mischief. He played with the wolves, took them for a swim and reminded Lizaene that he was actually the future king and returning to the enclosure would be on his terms and in good time. On the way back, he showered Riana with love and then decided to go on a hunting expedition. Afterwards he greeted and played with the other animals in the yard and posed for some photos. All of this between sunrise and breakfast!  No wonder he decided to use the table as a thrown from where he could observe his future dynasty.  He had just conquered the world and there was no way that he had energy left to return to the ladies. May-Louise had to provide him with the necessary means of transportation. Aaah Nonyx, he may never become the King of the Jungle but he will always be the King of hearts! For more photos of this trip around the Cheetah Experience world, look at the albums “Dancing with wolves” and “Hunting expedition” posted on our Facebook page.