IseeU

Fatiema – Gr 10 MVH mentee

"Art should matter and speak to every person."

Post 6

Cleo – Gr 10 MVH mentee

It was fascinating to learn about the importance of the history of art. The creative art workshop taught me that art is more than just painting, it allows me to express my emotions. I enjoyed it!

IseeU Gr 10 Art Workshops, which took place on Saturday, 7 & 14 September with Caren Falconer, from Art Studio.

A Heartfelt Thank You for the IseeU Programme

I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the opportunity to be a part of the IseeU programme. I count it a joy and a privilege to share my love for art and art history within the South African context with such enthusiastic young mentees. Each group I engage with brings new surprises and insights, and I find myself feeling both encouraged and inspired by their creativity and perspectives. Caren Falconer

We would also like to extend a special thank you to Caren from the Art Studio. Your unwavering commitment to this journey with us at IseeU is seen. Your passion for inspiring our young mentees to harness their creativity serves as a powerful catalyst for change. Through your guidance, they have had the opportunity to explore the impactful world of Protest Art, which not only enriches their understanding of artistic expression but also empowers them to engage with social issues meaningfully.

The experience of working with these young mentees has reinforced a belief in the transformative power of art. It is not merely about creating; it is about expressing, questioning, and connecting with the world around us. The discussions we have had about Protest Art have opened their eyes to the role that art can play in advocating for change and giving voice to the marginalised.

The recent DAISY TALK workshop took place this month and featured the esteemed Celeste Matthews Wannenburgh as the presenter.

Celeste, an accomplished actress and educator, is also the Chair of the WZ Board, making her an inspiring figure for our grade 11 mentees. During the workshop, Celeste provided valuable insights and guidance aimed at empowering the attendees to navigate their futures effectively.

Her multifaceted experience in the arts and education allowed her to engage the girls in meaningful discussions about personal growth and career development. The session was designed to encourage reflection and inspire action towards achieving their goals.

All of us here at IseeU look forward to future DAISY TALKS, as they aim to build on the success of these years’ workshops, providing enriching experiences for young mentees.

Celeste, your dedication and enthusiasm for mentoring our mentees have made a significant impact. Your willingness to share your life experiences and insights created a supportive environment where they feel encouraged to engage in our session. Your passion not only inspires them but also fosters a sense of community and growth among everyone involved. Thank you for being so willing to be a part of the Daisy Talk with IseeU.

Dear Nancy and Beryl, we express our heartfelt thanks for your hard work and incredible enthusiasm in preparing for our workshops together. Your dedication and positive energy have truly made a difference, and we look forward with great excitement to next year’s collaboration.

Thank you to Artscape for providing us with space to host this past years workshops.

The Courageous Life Podcast

Heroes and Helpers #5 - Building a future starts with feeling seen with Hayley Philander

We are excited to share a conversation our very own Hayley has had with John Steinfeldt from The Courageous Life Podcast.

Check it out on all major platforms!

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-courageous-life/id1336144086?i=1000664161044

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/72NzvoKiUSaJMYuRnem0nd?si=KoNvfIcPSFm433gNe7Bbsw

Buzzsprout: https://www.buzzsprout.com/212272/15520870

Mentee: Natheera

1. What has your journey been so far on the IseeU programme?

It is fun! I got to know my peers better, and opened up about my feelings, which made me, feel much better.

2. Where have you seen yourself grow, whilst on the IseeU programme?

I am learning to be kind to myself. I am more assertive……I’m me, and I love myself.

Mentee: Jennaline

1. What has your journey been so far on the IseeU programme?

So the journey has been overwhelming for me. I have started to accept myself for who I am. I love the different opinions within our group, and that we feel comfortable sharing in the safe space.

2. Where have you seen yourself grow, whilst on the IseeU programme?

I’ve grown to be more comfortable around people. I am able to be more positive, and more focused on taking care of my future self.

Mentee: Leah

1. What has your journey been so far on the IseeU programme?

When I’m feeling overwhelmed, and my thoughts are all over the place, I do the breathing exercises, which my mentors suggested. It helps me feel more peaceful and calm and clears my mind. Through the IseeU programme, I’ve gotten to know my peers better. Listening to our shared stories has helped me.

2. Where have you seen yourself grow, whilst on the IseeU programme?

I am doing my best letting my anger not get the better of my emotions or me.

Our stories have the power to inspire others and make a lasting impact on the world.

It can be challenging to sit in a room when someone shares a story that resonates with your own experiences. I know this feeling all too well, as I would often excuse myself when certain topics were discussed in classrooms or among friends.

However, on Saturday, I had a transformative experience during Heidi's inspirational talk. When she shared her story, I felt no urge to leave the room, which struck me as a significant sign of personal growth over the past few years. Healing and progress may not occur overnight, or even over weeks or years, but there will come a day when you'll feel empowered to stay in the room.

And when that day arrives, I hope you'll take pride in your resilience. Sharing your story can be daunting, but it can also help someone in the room feel less alone, and remind them that their struggles are temporary. Keisha, IseeU alumni

Listening to the stories of Heidi and Annushka has been both inspiring and enlightening. Their journeys are powerful reminders of resilience and determination, and that success is attainable regardless of one’s background. Many successful individuals have faced significant obstacles, yet they chose to rise above their circumstances. Both Heidi and Annushka overcame their pasts, with every setback seen as an opportunity to learn and grow. Natheerah, MVH learner.

We have to surround ourselves with positive influences. Continue to seek out stories of individuals who have overcome adversity, as they can provide motivation and guidance.

Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. When faced with difficulties, remind yourself of past experiences where you triumphed. Keep pushing forward, and never lose sight of the incredible potential within you. Thank you for sharing your inspiring reflections!

Heidi Edson and Annushka Isaacs…. YOU ARE ROCKSTARS!!

Mentee: Jeanique

1. What has your journey been so far on the IseeU programme?

I learned to love myself. Values are a part of me, which I mindfully practice every day. IseeU sessions are a safe place for me to be myself.

2. Where have you seen yourself grow, whilst on the IseeU programme?

I am more kind, I have more balance in my life and my team working skills have grown.

Last Saturday, our Grade 12 mentees had the opportunity to meet with Heidi and Annushka, two inspiring women who courageously shared their life stories.
We are so grateful to Heidi Edson and Annushka Isaacs for bravely sharing their stories with our mentees.

Thank you from all our Gr 12 mentees.
Thank you for giving us the opportunity to meet Heidi and Annushka, two truly inspiring and amazing women. Their experiences and knowledge, which they generously shared with us, resonated deeply and helped motivate and inspire us. I'm so glad to have met them and learned from their experiences, which had a powerful impact on us as mentees. We were empowered and felt that we were not alone, and as young women, we have so much potential. Amiera, MVH learner.
My experience with Heidi and Annushka at IseeU session was truly inspiring! I recognized the importance of understanding others without jumping to conclusions. I realized that everyone has his or her own battles. Ciara, MVH learner.

The realization that it’s okay to take life step by step is significant. Acknowledging that mistakes and failures are part of the journey can relieve the pressure to be perfect. Understanding that failures are not the end but rather opportunities for growth is a powerful lesson. Storm, MVH learner.

Mentee: Mia

1. What has your journey been so far on the IseeU programme?

So far it’s been amazing and with each session, I feel peaceful, relaxed, and happy in the moment. The mentors are extremely kind; they put a smile on and try to make us feel as comfortable as possible.

2. Where have you seen yourself grow, whilst on the IseeU programme?

I am able to open up more about what I would hold close to my heart, which I have personally never done before.

Mentee: Jade

1. What has your journey been so far on the IseeU programme?

It has been very amazing! The day I joined IseeU, I had been going through so much and just showing up for all the IseeU sessions changed everything. I feel so much better. The darkness disappeared and light has made its way through.

2. Where have you seen yourself grow, whilst on the IseeU programme?

I’ve seen myself grow in everything I do; the way I think, and the way I am towards others.

Make her future a reality by donating here: https://iseeu.org.za/donate/

Mentee: Cleo

1. What has your journey been so far on the IseeU programme?

It’s been amazing. I am not a person to speak up but the IseeU mentors made me feel comfortable enough to talk and share so much in the group.

2. Where have you seen yourself grow, whilst on the IseeU programme?

At first, I was shy to answer questions, but my mentors made me feel more confident to speak up. I see myself continuously growing, being outspoken and courageous.

Happy Womans Month!

www.iseeu.org.za/donate

Mentee: Mickyla

1. What has your journey been so far on the IseeU programme?

For me it was a lot to adapt to, but now I have a safe space. I can let my mind be at ease, and not carry so much worry about the world I live in. I give myself time to rest and to think about myself and not be influenced by others judgment of me. I learnt a lot, which helped me, grow into a better person, whilst I enjoy my time at every IseeU session. I'm always happy to see my mentors.

2. Where have you seen yourself grow, whilst on the IseeU programme?

I want to be more confident in my work as I doubt myself a lot. Through the IseeU programme, I have been letting go of my bad habits and letting the world see the new me.

Mentee: Azra

1. What has your journey been so far on the IseeU programme?

Honestly, in the beginning, I wasn’t sure if I should even attend, but as I kept going, it brought me to a place of peace & calmness.

2. Where have you seen yourself grow, whilst on the IseeU programme?

Ever since I’ve been coming to the IseeU programme, I’m more confident & I also respect myself more.

Mentee: Zoe-Lee

1. What has your journey been so far on the IseeU programme?

My journey has been the best. I get to learn & reflect quite a bit now. One of the things I admire is that I am valued and treated with kindness by my mentors I have the utmost respect for the IseeU programme. It taught me to see how beautiful life is. The IseeU programme has helped with my confidence & be more conscious about myself. I am happy in every session. Our mentors make the sessions so much fun.

2. Where have you seen yourself grow, whilst on the IseeU programme?

I grew and continue to in my self-awareness (being aware of myself)

Mentee: Robin

1. What has your journey been so far on the IseeU programme?

It has been an adventure; I have learned to prioritise myself and to be mindful.

2. Where have you seen yourself grow, whilst on the IseeU programme?

I have seen myself grow in confidence and self-esteem. With the help of my mentors at IseeU, I am able to hold myself carefully and know that self-care is a thing.