21st Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest People
You are my Mother

Being the only breadwinner providing for two kids is not a small challenge in South Africa. When little Paru lost his mommy to domestic violence, his youngest aunt Zikhona adopted him and his older sister without hesitation. Little Paru, scarred by a devastating fire that had ravaged his tiny body when he was just two months old, requires extensive medical care and specialized daily care. What Zikhona is doing while putting her dreams and goals on hold is an incredibly inspiring act of unwavering love and steadfast courage. She chose what was right and not what was easy—in the true essence of humanity.

Photo Detail
Date Uploaded: 11.2023
Photo Location: Hout Bay, South Africa
Camera: GFX 50R
Copyright: © Angelika Kollin