In recognition of three decades of South Africa’s democracy, the Apartheid Museum is partnering with the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and the Nelson Mandela Foundation to present Born Free: Generation of Hope, a photographic exhibition by Dutch photographer Ilvy Njiokiktjien, in which she explores the lives of South Africa’s first generation born after apartheid.
Born Free: Generation of Hope, curated by Neo Ntsoma and Azu Nwagbogu, is a visual and narrative exploration of South Africa’s journey over the past three decades through the eyes of those born around 1994 - the first generation to grow up in a democratic South Africa, free from institutionalised racial segregation and discrimination.
Despite the initial optimism, many still struggle with the socio-economic disparities that continue to shape South African society. However, this generation is also marked by cultural and social shifts. Born frees are more interconnected, often forming relationships across racial lines – something previously unimaginable. And they are increasingly vocal and active in addressing social issues, pushing for further transformation and justice.