from Johannesburg, South Africa.
I was in high school the first time I saw the painted houses of the Ndebele people in a book. I was captivated by the colors and patterns, as well as by the women who painted them—their beadwork and jewelry.
I knew that they live in a region of South Africa that I won’t be visiting on this trip, so I was thrilled to see portions of Ndebele murals in Johannesburg. And then I found this video about Esther Mahlangu, who painted one of the murals I’d seen. The story of this 82 year old artist is so inspiring. Watch it. I promise you’ll feel buoyed by her strength and resilience!
And then consider your own creativity. How do you express it? What’s a new way you could try to express it? Connecting with your creativity will help you think more innovatively and could bring joy and happiness to your life!

