When South African business leaders combine adventure with purpose, remarkable things can happen.

On 23 July 2026, South African Chamber of Commerce UK member Luc Janssens took fundraising to new heights—quite literally—by completing a wing walk atop a 1940s biplane in support of Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary UK.

The exhilarating challenge was more than an adrenaline-filled experience. It was a commitment to protecting one of South Africa’s most iconic species while supporting a conservation organisation that is making a measurable impact on both wildlife and local communities.

As the world’s largest orphaned rhino sanctuary, Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary rescues, rehabilitates and rewrites the future for rhinos affected by poaching and wildlife crime. The sanctuary currently protects 1,500 hectares within the Barberton Nature Reserve complex and is working towards an ambitious Phase 3 expansion that will add another 18,000 hectares of protected land, with a long-term conservation vision spanning up to 157,000 hectares.

The organisation’s impact extends well beyond conservation. To date, it has:

• Rescued and rehabilitated more than 113 rhinos
• Successfully rewilded 51 rhinos
• Celebrated the birth of 29 rhino calves at the sanctuary
• Supported 814 unemployed young South Africans through paid work experience and youth development programmes

Reflecting on his motivation, Luc shared that protecting South Africa’s natural heritage is deeply personal.

“As a South African, I believe it is vital to support projects like this so that my future children and the next generation can still experience the nature and animals I grew up with, while also helping develop the next generation of South Africans through youth-focused initiatives.”

 

The fundraising event brought together 20 wing walkers and their supporters, collectively raising more than £60,000 for various charitable causes, with over £8,000 dedicated to supporting Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary UK.

Luc extended his gratitude to event organiser Anthony W., the team at AeroSuperBatics, everyone who supported him on the day, and the many individuals who donated and shared the campaign.

The South African Chamber of Commerce UK congratulates Luc on this inspiring achievement. His efforts demonstrate how members of our community continue to champion South Africa’s people, wildlife and future—even from thousands of miles away.

If you would like to support the ongoing fundraising campaign, donations remain open for a limited time. Every contribution helps protect South Africa’s rhinos while investing in conservation-led community development.