My name is Somboon. You may know me as one of the elephants who, alongside Sri Nuan, took part in the Walk to Freedom in May 2019—a journey that marked the beginning of a new life for us both.

Just a few months after gaining my freedom, I gave birth to a beautiful baby boy. Knowing that he was born into a life without chains fills my heart with peace. We named him Haven Moonlight, as he was born under the last full moon of the decade and became the very first calf born at Samui Elephant Haven. From the moment he arrived, he captured the hearts of everyone here.

My first calf was Nong Pech, and having her with me again at the Haven is something I will always be grateful for. She was taken from me when she was only two years old and forced into street begging in Surin Province. During that time, she suffered a terrible fall into a deep drain and was so badly injured that it took two years for her to recover. We were separated then, and I knew nothing of what she endured until we were reunited. Learning what she went through broke my heart, and now, when the nights are quiet, we often stand together, sharing peaceful moments side by side.

For most of my life, I was used for trekking, carrying heavy metal chairs on my back as I walked the same routes again and again. At night, we were chained in the forest to prevent us from escaping. The woods can be dark and unsettling, and loud or unfamiliar noises still make me uneasy. When I feel frightened, I instinctively look for a safe place to stand.

Today, life is calmer. Here at Samui Elephant Haven, I feel protected, respected, and cared for. If you are visiting Koh Samui, I would love for you to come and say hello. We would be happy to meet you—and perhaps share a few bananas together—at this peaceful haven I now call home.