[21 Icons Season 3] Catherine Constantinides

Constantinides was selected for 21 Icons South Africa Season 3 for the establishment of numerous community outreach projects aimed at driving climate change as well as starting initiatives that show the way forward for the next generation to aspire to be socially conscious and active citizens.

As a 'voice' of young South Africa, and the executive director of Lead SA and an Archbishop Tutu African Oxford Fellow she ensures that the continent is included in global conversations regarding the development of Africa and improving the lives of the broader community.

During a portrait sitting, Constantinides tells season 3 photographer Gary van Wyk how her roots have always been firmly entrenched in a passion for the protection of our environment and the development of Africa. As a budding social entrepreneur she started her own eventing, branding and marketing business at the age of 16 in order to create awareness for social and environmental issues in South Africa.

She reflects how she had her sights on becoming South Africa's first female president. At the age of six she wrote numerous letters to President Nelson Mandela and after many months of writing received a series of responses from the desk of the President. She eventually met with Madiba and she indicates that her engagements with him had a major influence and impact on her life.

About the portrait

For the portrait 'Force of Nature', Van Wyk describes the visual elements, "Inspired by her passion for the environment and the work she does to highlight women's contributions in the conservation space, the portrait is set on Llandudno Beach in Cape Town. A wreath of indigenous flowers encircling her head, Constantinides is photographed surrounded by the very ecosystem she fights to protect."

View the video

About 21 Icons Season 3

The short film-series documents the conversations between Gary Van Wyk as the photographer and filmmaker and the icons. Each short film provides insight into both the subject and photographer's creative approach to the portrait.

Behind each portrait lies a carefully planned concept that captures not only the essence of each icon visually, but also in spirit and in terms of their unique legacy.

Season three of 21 ICONS South Africa is proudly sponsored by Mercedes-Benz South Africa.

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