Afrospection with Isabel Katjavivi

Award winning Namibian artist, Isabel Katjavivi, is not afraid to use her art to share an important message.

Artist, Photographer and Film Maker, Isabel shares here her learnings and lessons from the past year, her self examination from Africa… her Afrospection.

Isabel’s favourite quote right now: 

‘Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced’ James Baldwin

If you could wake up tomorrow having gained any one quality or ability, what would it be? 

IK: Being fluent in OtjiHerero.

What challenged you in 2018 and how did you overcome this challenge?  

IK: I challenged myself this year. I left my job and a constant income, to do my art and to study. I questioned myself, every little thing I do; how I do it and why I do it. I’m still on this journey of building myself.

What’s one thing that bothers you most about the world today? 

IK: Intolerance of the other or the unknown, which is at the root of many of the world’s problems.

What was your biggest personal development learning of 2018? 

IK: Understanding and accepting myself. It only took 30 years and this is just the beginning.

What is your wish for Namibia for 2018? 

IK: Respect women. Protect one another. Do more for the nation.

“Any society that does not succeed in tapping into the energy and creativity of its youth will be left behind” Kofi Annan

Where do you find your inspiration? 

IK: All around. In the present and the past. In my family. In my son.

What’s on your bucket list for 2019? 

IK: I’d love to travel and explore more with my son.

Pushing myself creatively.

Do you believe in second chances?

IK: Absolutely! For others, but especially for myself. 2018 has shown me that it’s never too late to take a leap of faith. Give yourself a second chance!

What skill do you wish you had?

IK: Asking other people with skills I don’t have to collaborate.