As a young child growing up in Cameroon, I vividly remember learning and singing the South African National Anthem in a time when I did not yet understand exactly what Apartheid was. I remember learning about Tata Madiba, and thinking how sweet and playful he seemed – not fully grasping the sheer gravity, importance, and impact his life and sacrifices had been for South Africans and the world alike. Though it wouldn’t be for another several years that I would have the opportunity to visit his beautiful country, it would become a life-changing experience to see firsthand what is possible when the human spirit endures and triumphs above evil.

Johannesburg, Durban, Cape Town, and everything in between. I'm sure it sounds dramatic, but the people, places, and experiences I encountered throughout my month long trip throughout South Africa somehow restored my faith in humanity.

Here's to you Madiba. May your legacy continue to represent the triumph of the human spirit against forces of evil, a triumph of wisdom and largeness of spirit against small minds and pettiness, and a triumph of courage and determination over human frailty and weakness for many generations to come.