KNYSNA NEWS - For nearly 30 years, Helpus Ndlebe has devoted his life to animals in need - a calling he believes he was born to fulfil.
"God created me to save animals. They are the reason for my existence," says the soft-spoken caregiver at Knysna Animal Welfare Society.
Born in 1968 in Whittlesea in the Eastern Cape, Ndlebe's love for animals began in childhood, helping care for his father's dogs, sheep and cattle. After completing a diploma in husbandry, he moved to Knysna and joined the organisation in 1996 - a day he still calls one of the happiest of his life.
"That's when I knew I would work with animals for the rest of my life," says the father of six.
Three decades on, that passion has not faded.
"I still get chills in the morning knowing I can go and look after animals. Retirement is not something I think about."
A life that never stops
For Ndlebe, the work does not end when the day does.
"I cannot switch off," he says. "People come to my home after hours asking for help with sick animals. I cannot say no."
His mornings begin with checking on animals in his care, making sure they have eaten and monitoring those that are ill. If a sick animal hasn't eaten, he knows something is wrong and call the vet immediately."
Even on the street, he is approached for help. "I don't turn people away. I simply cannot say no to a sick animal."
The hard reality
The work also comes with heartbreak. "The worst is seeing animals in severe pain. Some people treat animals very badly," he says.
Two cases have stayed with him - a dog burned with boiling water and another fatally injured when it was hit by a truck. "Those moments stay with you, but they also make you stronger and remind you why you do this work."
Joy in small things
Despite the sad moments, it is the small moments that sustain him. When animals are happy, his heart is happy, he says.
He believes animals deserve the same care and compassion as people.
"They have emotions just like we do."
Changing lives - animal and human
Ndlebe is also involved in community outreach, helping educate residents about responsible pet care and supporting those who cannot afford proper shelter for their animals.
"We are making progress. We are winning hearts and minds," he says.
At home, he keeps just one dog. "You must give your pet your full attention," he explains.
A calling, not a job
After 30 years, his mission remains unchanged. "I cannot go to bed knowing an animal is suffering. They cannot ask for help - I must speak for them."
For Ndlebe, it has never been just a job.
"I was born to look after animals."
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