Portraits of South Africans and Their Messages to the Late Nelson Mandela

Rest in peace, Tata. You have done so much for us. We thank you. We are who we are because of you. I’ll remember you when the sun rises and when the sun goes down. I’ll always love you.

Canada-based photographer George Qua-Enoo asked the people of South Africa to transcribe their feelings about Nelson Mandela in honor of his passing. Originally born in Ghana, Qua-Enoo immigrated to South Africa not long before Mandela was elected president in 1994. Like most Africans, Qua-Enoo feels Mandela’s life and actions have radically affected his own. When it was announced that Mandela had passed at the age of 95, Qua-Enoo took to the streets of Pretoria, speaking with dozens about the impact Mandela had on them and his place in their lives. The result is a series of portraits and words dedicated to the man who changed history forever and won the hearts of millions.

Madiba, thank you for your humaneness by which you served us. Rest in peace.

R.I.P. Tata. You were a hero.

R.I.P my hero.

I love you Tata. You have done so much for us. Everything is OK because of you. Thank you so much. I’ll always love you. God Bless you. R.I.P.

Even though you are gone we’ll always remember and love you.

We have all benefited from what you did. Rest in peace.

Father, rest in peace. You did everything well.

Rest in peace Tata. Still waiting for free education, transformation in some of the universities.

This post was contributed by photographer and Feature Shoot Editorial Assistant Jenna Garrett.

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