Letters To Our Younger Selves- Lessons From Women In Creativity

In honor of International Women’s Day, we invited incredible Women to pen heartfelt letters to their younger selves offering wisdom on Self-worth, Creativity and Resilience. This is what they had to say:

Dear Younger Self,

It’s been quite the journey, hasn’t it? As a female artist navigating an industry often overshadowed by male counterparts, there were moments when you doubted yourself. 

Remember, those experiences shaped you, teaching you resilience and the importance of your unique voice. Embrace your identity and creativity fiercely, for it’s these very qualities that set you apart. Every brushstroke, every sketch, every moment of self-doubt transformed into a masterpiece of self-discovery. Continue to trust in your artistry, knowing that the world needs your perspective now more than ever.

Keep painting your path,

Your Older Self

Tehlai X

Dear Wina, 

Since this is a letter to you, it only feels right to use the name that brought you comfort. The name that reminded you of home. I’m writing to the version of you that was cast aside in every way that mattered. You longed for an escape for freedom, for an outlet. More than anything, you just wanted to be heard. 

Well, girl, you have that now. And I’ve never been more grateful that every time you wished and planned to leave this world, you stayed. Because today, you have a village your own Avengers (yes, you’re still corny, some things never change) who love and cherish not just you but also your baby. Yes, she has the name you always dreamed of. You have your little family. You finally found the courage to start that blog, you’re in a book club, you have a literary group, and you even created a support network for mothers. You’re on the path to becoming the humanitarian you always wanted to be. 

This life isn’t perfect, but it’s yours. It took years of unlearning and some therapy, but you kept going. You never let the people who called you nothing decide your fate. You are safe. You are seen. And all of it every moment of joy, of love, of purpose is because you never stopped dreaming. All the love, 

Ntswaki 

P.S. I know it might surprise you, but I love our name now. The same name they ridiculed with racism and bullying is the name I’ve reclaimed. Because there’s nothing quite like coming back home to yourself. 

Dear Younger Me,

Your worth is not measured by medals or records- it’s in the courage to show up, the passion to create your own path, and the resilience to rise after every fall. Never let doubt silence your dreams because process is not failure. Your journey is your masterpiece.

With Strength and Love;

Tsaone

Dear 10-Year-Old RETHA

Life is not all roses and not everyone is as sweet and kind as you think. Trials and tribulations are not only from Prayer. They do exist in real life. Learn about resilience as early as you can; it will help you in future. You are worth all beautiful things. Be creative in life. Fly, fall, hurt, enjoy. But most importantly, don’t forget to LOVE.

Love, 

Retha. 

From these letters we are reminded that growth is a journey, that every challenge is a stepping stone, and that the strength of a Woman lies in her ability to evolve, rise, and inspire others along the way.

May these stories ignite something in you, reminding you to embrace your path with courage and grace. 

HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY. 

From all of us at IPELE KA WENA