The sanctuary has received word that their work has been noticed far beyond the Karoo.
Karoo, South Africa (28 April 2026) – The Karoo Donkey Sanctuary has been presented with the 2026 Shining World Compassion Award by Supreme Master Ching Hai, who is defined by the sanctuary as a world-renowned spiritual leader, author, and humanitarian.
The award is one of a global series that recognises individuals and organisations who go beyond the call of duty to serve others, human and animal alike, with selflessness and compassion.
“I am so incredibly honoured and proud for KDS to have received the 2026 Shining World Compassion Award, presented by Supreme Master Ching Hai.” says Jonno Sherwin, Founder and CEO of the Karoo Donkey Sanctuary.
Along with a crystal plaque and a personal letter of appreciation from Supreme Master Ching Hai, the sanctuary will receive a financial contribution of US$10,000 (around R163,940) to support their ongoing work at the sanctuary for donkeys!
In her personal letter to the sanctuary, Supreme Master Ching Hai acknowledged the sanctuary’s work rescuing, rehabilitating, and rehoming hundreds of animals, most of them severely abused, overworked, or abandoned. She noted the ongoing battle against the illicit donkey skin trade, which still threatens millions of donkeys worldwide, and honoured the Karoo Donkey Sanctuary, recognising it as the largest of its kind in Africa.
Jonno shared the recognition with his hard-working, committed team who show up everyday for the love of donkeys.
“While this recognition is humbling on a personal level, it really belongs to the entire team at the Sanctuary. Every day, they show up to do the hard, often unseen work of caring for our vulnerable animals, and this acknowledgment reflects their dedication just as much as anything else.” he said.
Last year was one of the hardest in the sanctuary’s history, when a donor pledge that fell through left around 400 animals without shelter in the dead of winter, pushing the organisation to the very brink. At the 11th hour, a small group of angel investors stepped in, and the sanctuary was able to purchase a 500-hectare farm at the base of the Meringspoort in De Rust.
The farm’s name, Die Hoop, literally means ‘The Hope’ and it has lived up to that name ever since.
Supreme Master Ching Hai’s letter acknowledged this journey too, noting the spiritual significance of that new beginning and closing with a blessing.
“May Heavens engrave your name with Blessing and Love for you, all involved and all the wonder, lucky residents under your Angelic Wings.”
The financial contribution will go directly toward supporting the sanctuary’s compassionate work with abandoned, abused and neglected donkeys.
“We are sincerely grateful for the support, which will go directly towards strengthening our efforts on the ground and continuing the work that matters most.” said Sherwin.
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