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Share an inspiring woman's story.
Share an inspiring woman's story.
It could be your mother, a friend or a teacher. Have they expressed themselves artistically? Worked to better their community? Achieved academic success? Empowered others and embraced diversity? Share their stories here.
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Stuart Utley

Madison, WI, United States

South African Artist, Babalwa Mhlauli, expresses heartfelt emotions regarding her country, its leaders and troubled times, to provide a beacon of hope for the children she cares so deeply about. Her father, an anti-apartheid activist, was murdered for voicing courageous views when Babalwa was just nine years old. Later, at the age of 19, she became the youngest person ever to testify before the Truth and Reconciliation Commission following years of struggle in her homeland.
“I told them that we wanted to forgive, but we didn’t know whom to forgive,” she says simply. “Children are often left behind. They’re part and parcel of what’s going on, and much more observant than what you think.” Thus began her warm relationship with Archbishop Desmond Tutu. “It was my most defining moment – he showed me love and encouraged me, he gave me wings to soar. Art is medicine for the heart! It unifies people. I’m a communicator and want to tell the truth as I see it!”
Babalwa’s artistic mission is to share love and to celebrate strength and resilience found in every human being despite their circumstances. She inspires all to focus on the light within, and to share it through their God Given Talents. The ability of children to smile and shine under the worst of circumstances literally restores humanity in a world forever moving without pausing, slowing down and listening. Taking time to give thanks while smelling the flowers, is what gives peace, and brings one closer to our true purpose.
She shares her gifts with boundless energy, enthusiasm and pure joy! Dancing and performing poems such as Global Unification, Hope, and The Cradle of Human Kindness while talking about how every piece is created. Her studio is a spectacle of vivid colors, with large, vibrant artworks which even spill onto the floors, so prolific is her creative output. No container can bound her energy and enthusiasm! Being with her for just a short while is enough to feel an infectious spirit of ebuliance!

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