Created using Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator
Dimensions:  4000 x 7111  Technique: Digital collage/illustration
Inspiration: Navigating Life's Challenges in Zimbabwe

Growing up in Zimbabwe was a humbling experience that constantly reminded me of the value of the simple things we often take for granted. One of the most vivid memories from my childhood is the recurring electricity cuts that would last for hours, and sometimes even days. These power outages were a stark reminder of the challenges that many Zimbabweans faced on a daily basis.

In our neighbourhood, there was a family living in the backyard of their employer's house. This was a common setup stemming from the remnants of colonialism, where domestic workers traditionally lived in the backyards of their employers' homes. The family consisted of a husband, his wife, and their three kids. The backyard was illuminated by a single street lamp that acted as a beacon of hope during the darkest hours of the electricity cuts.

When the electricity would finally come back on, there was an audible cheer from the kids as they knew it meant they could watch TV again. In a way, this shared experience united the community, and even though we were all facing the same difficulties, there was a sense of camaraderie that helped us cope with the challenges.

This period coincided with the tough times of Zimbabwe's second major recession in 2008. The economic hardship affected us all, and months would go by without a consistent power supply. Despite the hardships, there was resilience and a sense of determination that defined our lives. Personally, these moments of power outage were a signal for me to study even harder, as education was seen as a way out of the difficulties that surrounded us.

Fast forward to today, and those kids I remember from my childhood are now grown up. Life has taken its course, but the memories of those shared struggles remain. Recently, I found myself in a similar situation, facing a challenge while reflecting on my past. It was then that I realized the importance of those childhood experiences – they shaped not only my perspective on life but also my ability to overcome adversity.

Each of us has a unique journey filled with stories that connect us to our past and shape our future. This story, set against the backdrop of electricity cuts and the joy of restored power, serves as a reminder of the strength that comes from unity and shared experiences.

My upbringing in Zimbabwe taught me that even in the face of challenges, there's a lesson to be learned and a silver lining to be found. Those childhood memories of eagerly awaiting the return of electricity still resonate with me today, reminding me of the importance of community, resilience, and the value of the simple things in life.