Madiba's People

For two and a half years I lived and worked on a personal photo project "Makhelwane" (My neighbour) in the ‘Transkei’ Wild Coast (Eastern Cape, where ex-president Nelson Mandela “Madiba” was born and raised). I yearly continue to document Madiba’s people (the amaXhosa) still living in the rural homelands. I titled the collection “Madiba’s People” in order for the amaXhosa not to be forgotten, as what was already happening during Nelson Mandela’s funeral when the people were only allowed to observe the funeral from the hills in the distance, something so contrary to their ‘Ubuntu’ culture where it is seen as an insult if someone do not attend a neighbour’s funeral. My objective is to preserve moments in the lives of individuals in this rapidly changing culture as it is affected by modern technology and Western influences. I also aim to use photography as a means to create an insight into the people’s lives and their struggle against poverty and it’s effects. My choice to focus on the positive is derived directly from the strength and pride radiated from the people themselves.