Our Team
“Your calling is what moves you like nothing else.
It draws you in, fills you with joy and sets your heart on fire.”
- Panthera Africa -
Our Co-Founders
Lizaene (Liz) Cornwall
From a Dream to Reality
Since 2007, I have cared for and worked closely with eight different species of big cats and other predators. My journey began at a previous wildlife project where I worked hands-on with the animals and interactions were permitted. Through this experience, I came to understand the individuality, intelligence and remarkable capabilities of each species.
Those years changed the course of my life and showed me, without question, that protecting and caring for big cats is my calling. This was where the foundation for Panthera Africa was laid. My love and admiration for these animals grew into a powerful determination to rescue those in need and give them the safe, peaceful lives they deserve.
As I continued to educate myself, I began to understand the truth behind captive big cat breeding, animal interaction experiences, the exploitation of big cats and the illegal wildlife trade. I later spent two and a half years working as a National Inspector for the National Council of Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA), visiting and inspecting captive breeding facilities. What I witnessed strengthened my resolve to speak out for these animals and help create lasting change.
Through my story and the extraordinary connections I share with our ambassador animals, I hope to reach the hearts of people around the world.
“When we truly understand how intelligent, sensitive and individual these animals are, we begin to see why they must never be treated as commodities. They deserve our respect, our protection and a life free from exploitation.”
Cathrine (Cat) S. Nyquist
My Magical Journey with the Big Cats
Originally from Norway, I used to be a typical businesswoman with a degree in business and finance, climbing the career ladder and enjoying a jet-set lifestyle filled with travel, wining and dining.
In September 2011, I was preparing to begin what I was certain would be my dream job as a broker at one of Oslo’s most up-and-coming commercial real estate companies. Two weeks before I was due to start, I boarded a plane to South Africa to volunteer at a breeding project. Little did I know that this decision would change my life in every possible way.
After two further visits to the project, I moved permanently to South Africa in May 2012 and began assisting Lizaene with her daily responsibilities. My days quickly became filled with hard work and, best of all, precious time with the animals. I felt as though I was living in a magical world, falling more deeply in love each day with three small, furry friends who had completely captured my heart.
I later discovered that one of the lions I loved was being sent to a breeding and trading farm that I feared could be connected to the canned hunting industry. My world fell apart.
“As painful as that separation was, I remain grateful for the fire this little lion ignited within me: the determination to save him and the many other lions caught within this unethical industry.”
That determination led to the creation of Panthera Africa. Today, I am living my dream of helping to protect and care for big cats. I feel incredibly fortunate to have found my purpose and to use my experience in business and finance to support the work that means so much to me: bringing people together to protect the lions who stole my heart and changed the course of my life.
Our Human Pride
Taryn Shanna Blows
Director & Head Animal Caretaker
From the moment I met Cat and Lizaene, I was inspired. Once I learnt more about their work and what they were doing for animals in need, I knew I wanted to be part of it.
Over the past several years, the sanctuary and its animals have become an incredibly important part of my life. I have a deep love for and connection with nature and all its animals, and being at Panthera Africa truly feels like coming home.
Today, I serve as a Director and Head of Animal Care. I manage the day-to-day running and operations of the sanctuary, oversee the care and wellbeing of our animals and work closely with our animal care team to ensure that each animal’s individual needs are understood and met. Every animal has a unique personality, history and way of communicating, and it is a privilege to earn their trust and care for them throughout their lives.
“Working so closely with these animals has taught me the importance of patience, respect and learning to listen in ways that go beyond words. It is a great privilege to be able to speak up for those who don’t have a voice!”
Eve Leslie Painting-Thomas
Director | Administrative & HR Support
Like so many people, my story began with a childhood dream. Family holidays were spent visiting the Kruger National Park, where my fascination with, appreciation for and respect for wildlife, especially big cats, were formed.
In April 2009, on my 30th birthday, I touched a captive-bred cheetah. In that moment, something inside me knew that advocating for big cats was woven into the tapestry of my life.
Since then, I have been fortunate to work with remarkable people who have shared their knowledge and helped me understand the realities facing big cats in captivity. My own understanding and perspective have continued to evolve while bonding with, caring for and raising captive big cats. I have learnt an enormous amount and, through it all, I have come to know that this work is an intrinsic part of who I am meant to be.
As a qualified pre-school teacher, I would love to see school curriculums include topics such as conscious living, ethical tourism and co-existing in harmony with wildlife. If we want to change generational patterns of thinking, we must begin by creating awareness during a child’s formative years.
“May the work, culture and ethics of Panthera Africa inspire others and create a ripple effect among the visitors, tourists, volunteers and businesses who cross our path. My wish aligns with our mission: In unity there is strength.”
Taryn (Taz) Slabbert
Head of Fundraising & Marketing | Communications | Social Media
I spent about 20 years living and working outside South Africa before returning home in 2020 to work in animal welfare and conservation. The experience, skills and connections I gained overseas helped prepare me for what I do today.
My journey with Panthera Africa began in 2023, while I was working for another international organisation and searching for a permanent home for a rescued big cat with special needs. Panthera Africa was the first sanctuary I contacted and, after speaking to Cat, I discovered that such a place did exist. Later that year, I worked with Lizaene to raise the urgent funds needed to relocate Gabriel, our 13-year-old hand-reared leopard, when the facility where he had lived his entire life began closing down.
This inspired me to help more rescued captive big cats find ethical, permanent homes by working with sanctuaries, rescue organisations and airlines. Along the way, Lizaene became my mentor and helped me understand the realities of captive big cat breeding. I was later selected for a research project into South Africa’s captive big cat breeding industry, where I learnt more about the façade surrounding breeding, interaction tourism, trade and exploitation.
I joined Panthera Africa in my current role in January 2026. Fundraising is essential to caring for our animals and securing our sanctuary’s future, but support isn’t only about money. It can be a conversation, a shared story, an introduction, a gift in kind or someone choosing to use their voice. I am passionate about connection, networking and education, and I love seeing that light-bulb moment when someone learns something new and realises how they can help.
As one of my favourite sayings, attributed to Margaret Mead, reminds us:
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”
Claire Lamond
Volunteer Manager | Animal Caretaker
Originally from Scotland, my journey into the world of South African wildlife began 14 years ago, when I volunteered alongside Lizaene and Cat while caring for big and small cats. It was an experience that left a lasting mark on me, deepened my love and respect for these animals and shaped the path I wanted my life to take.
During that time, I learnt how individual each animal is, with their own personality, needs and way of communicating. It gave me a deeper understanding of the commitment, patience and responsibility involved in caring for animals who depend on us throughout their lives.
When the opportunity arose to join the Panthera Africa team all these years later, I couldn’t let it pass me by.
“Returning to South Africa and continuing to work with and for the animals feels like exactly where I’m meant to be. It is a privilege to be part of their daily care, to keep learning from them and to help give them the safe and respectful lives they deserve.”
My own little pride, Jasper, Tammy and Sage, relocated with me and, together, we’re beginning this new chapter at Panthera Africa. It already feels like home!
Tynika Tiribeni
Volunteer Coordinator | Animal Caretaker
Wildlife and big cats have always held a special place in my heart.
“Being able to care for these animals and help give them the best lives possible is an honour. I hope to have as much of an impact on their lives as they have had on mine.”
Every animal is an individual, with their own personality, needs and way of communicating. Taking the time to understand them, build trust and learn what makes each of them feel safe and comfortable is an incredibly meaningful part of caring for them.
The love, care and dedication that goes into every aspect of their daily lives continually inspires me. From meeting their individual needs to noticing the smallest changes in their behaviour, every part of their care matters.
They motivate me to give 200% every day and to play my part in ensuring that each animal feels safe, respected and deeply cared for. It is a privilege to continue learning from them and to help give them the peaceful lives they deserve.
Our Farmhouse Pride
Tarzan (9 November 2015)
In February 2016, on the night before Cat and Lizaene were due to relocate our lionesses Jade and Zakara to Panthera Africa Big Cat Sanctuary, they heard a little meow outside their window.
That was me, Tarzan!
When they looked outside, they saw my gorgeous little face waiting for them. I jumped through the window, made myself at home and have never left their side since. Cat and Lizaene fell in love with me, but I think the signs were perfectly clear: I had chosen them and was ready to join their pride!
I am a true loverboy with a very loud purr, but I am also brave, cheeky and never afraid to make my presence known.
“I am the self-appointed CEO of the farm and naturally, everyone is at my beck and call. After all, every sanctuary needs someone like me to keep the team in line!”
Leonardo (Born 1 September 2016)
My name is Leonardo, but you can call me Leo!
I was one of five puppies rescued from a farm worker who didn’t want to keep us. A dear friend of Cat and Lizaene saved us all, and they adopted me as a friend for Kira.
Kira was my loyal friend and companion for many wonderful years before she sadly passed away in 2026. I miss her very much, but I still have plenty of enthusiastic tail wags, slobbery kisses and unconditional love to share.
My favourite thing to do is:
“Pway wif my fwam fwiends!”
I love playtime, cuddles and keeping a close eye on any suspicious birds on the roof. Protecting the farmhouse is a very important job and someone has to do it!
Orion (Born 2 June 2018)
My name is Orion, and Cathrine knew I was special before we had even met!
One morning, she woke with a quiet feeling that something special was coming her way. Later that day, Lizaene arranged for my brother, Buddha, and me to visit. I crawled onto Cathrine’s chest, curled up and fell asleep. It was love at first sight, and she knew I was the special gift she had been waiting for.
I am a curious little man who loves exploring every corner of the farm and keeping everyone on their toes. I am kind-hearted, playful and full of character, and I formed a very special bond with Leonardo and Kira.
“On cold nights, you’ll find me curled up under the duvet. Add a few butt scratches and I’m the happiest little boy on the farm!”
Buddha (Born 2 June 2018)
My name is Buddha, and I came into Lizaene’s life as a very special gift from her beloved little dog, Scorgo, who sadly passed away in 2017.
In a dream, Scorgo showed Lizaene a little white-faced puppy and told her that I would share his life purpose, becoming her teacher and companion just as he had been. She also knew that my name was meant to be Buddha.
True to the gentle and compassionate qualities connected to my name, I am kind, soft-hearted and always close by. I have become the loving companion and teacher Scorgo promised, and I’m told I have the most beautiful eyes you will ever see!
“I came into Lizaene’s life with a very special purpose: to walk beside her, teach her and fill her days with love.”
Our Spirit Pride
Scorgo (12 September 2002 – 17 October 2017)
My name is Scorgo, and I was the first little dog to call the farm home, even before Panthera Africa welcomed its pride.
I had been by Lizaene’s side since I was only a few weeks old and soon became her loyal right-hand man. When she worked at a previous project raising lion cubs, I was always beside her, helping to teach the cubs manners and important social skills.
At the time, Lizaene didn’t yet understand the realities behind raising lion cubs in captivity or how it could form part of the wider captive big cat breeding and exploitation industry. What she learnt during those years shaped her journey and strengthened her determination to create something different. That vision became Panthera Africa, an ethical sanctuary that doesn’t breed or trade animals or allow hands-on animal interactions, and which advocates against the exploitation of captive big cats.
I came with Lizaene to Panthera Africa, where I played a special part in raising many of the animals who found their forever home here. I became a teacher, guide and loyal friend to animals far bigger than I was, simply by sharing the wisdom, gentle guidance and love that came naturally to me.
“I may have had little paws, but size has nothing to do with the difference we can make.”
I sadly passed away in 2017, but my little paws helped shape many lives. My influence remains part of Panthera Africa and my place in its story will never be forgotten.
Neo (17 October 2014 – April 2018)
My name is Neo, and a very special feeling helped Cat and Lizaene find me.
One morning, Lizaene woke with a strong feeling that she and Cat should visit their local animal welfare shelter. When they arrived, she immediately noticed me inside a Wendy house and felt drawn towards me.
Back then, my name was Maya. I was a chubby little tortoiseshell kitten who had been rescued from a local honey factory after bravely trying to fight off two German Shepherds for food. My brave and cheeky personality shone through immediately, and Cat and Lizaene knew I was meant to join their pride.
On our journey home, they spoke about the new beginnings we are sometimes given in life and how I had just been given mine. They named me Neo, meaning “new beginnings”, to mark the start of my new life with the Panthera Africa family.
I sadly passed away in 2018, but I will always be remembered as the brave and cheeky little kitten who followed a special feeling all the way home.
“Sometimes a feeling leads you exactly where you need to be. That feeling led Cat and Lizaene to me, and gave me my new beginning.”
Kira (8 August 2015 – 15 May 2026)
My name is Kira, and I found my family when they least expected it.
In October 2015, Lizaene visited the vet to collect predator supplements and food for Neo. While she was there, she unexpectedly asked whether any dogs needed a home. As it happened, the veterinary team knew of a little puppy who desperately needed one.
That puppy was me. I was severely dehydrated, underweight and much smaller than I should have been for my age. The vet examined and dewormed me, then prescribed the correct food to help me recover and regain my strength.
The moment Cat and Lizaene looked into my eyes, they knew they wanted to give me a home. They adopted me and welcomed me into the Panthera Africa pride.
They named me Kira, meaning “beam of light”, “beloved” and “one whom people look up to”. I did my best to live up to my beautiful name. I loved hunting for pine cones, going on walks, greeting everyone with kisses and howling back at the jackals.
I sadly passed away in 2026, but the light and love I brought to my family will always remain part of the Panthera Africa pride.
“I arrived small and in need of care, but I found my strength, my family and a home filled with love.”
