It was always a dream of mine to meet and photograph Nelson Mandela, I can only imagine how uplifting and inspiring an experience that would have been!

It’s hard to imagine that it’s been a decade since his passing, yet his indelible and positive presence continues to resonate within the hearts of many South Africans, myself included. It has been an absolute honour creating the official 2023 Mandela Day art-piece for the Cotton On Foundation this year.

As I worked on the art-piece, I hoped to channel Madiba's blossoming presence in the leaves together with the vibrant colours of the South African flag. Through the illustration and poem, I also aimed to capture the essence of the Foundation's commitment to planting trees in schools they support, as a tribute to the remarkable life of Nelson Mandela.

Though he is no longer with us, I am inspired to carry forward his seeds of hope, compassion and an open heart.