After 8 busy days in South Africa, I’m back in London for 3 days before heading off on the next adventure. It was a crazy week to say the least, jam packed with events & tourist activities, and my first time on the African continent 🙂 

The first event in question was the Forever Young Ball 2018, which took place at the Mandela family estate in Johannesburg, and featured keynote speakers including Madiba’s daughter, Dr. Mandela & supermodel, Naomi Campbell. It was fascinating to hear them as they recounted memories & stories from their time spent with Nelson Mandela. He was a great man, devout to his cause, and it’s evident that he left a huge mark on the world. I feel truly honoured to have been there and am grateful to my good friend, Lorenzo Escobal, for inviting me to go with him.

This was then followed by a private event, again at the Mandela family home, to celebrate World Aid’s Day, which was hosted by Mandela’s grandson, Ndaba Mandela, and included guests such as music legend, Sir Bob Geldof, a fellow Irishman. I had the pleasure of chatting with him later on in the evening, after we had all participated in a traditional African drumming session, and to my delight, he told me how he noticed I had great rhythm. As a singer/songwriter, I was flattered to say the least! After all, he’s a legend in his own right. 🙂

The next day, we attended the Global Citizen’s Concert in Johannesburg’s FNB Stadium, and wow, what a lineup! I was blown away by the icons featured, with performances from artists including Beyoncé & Jay Z, Ed Sheeran, Pharrell Williams, Usher & Stormzy. Even Oprah popped in to give a speech before Beyoncé and Jay Z took to the stage… It was a one-of-a-kind gig, that’s for sure!

In the days that followed, I had the pleasure of visiting Durban & also enjoying a safari trip where I got to experience the African wildlife in person. This trip will be ingrained in my memory for the rest of my life… I’m still reflecting on all that happened and feel incredibly grateful that I’ve gotten to live these moments. 

Now I’m preparing for my next trip, which will take me to The Caribbean. It will be my first time in this part of the world and I’m super pumped! It’s going to be a huge trip for me personally and I really can’t wait to share why…

Until next time,
Hannah Kathleen xo