New exhibition: 'Born Free - Mandela's Generation of Hope' by Ilvy Njiokiktjien

All photo credits: Ilvy Njiokiktjien.

The new photo exhibition 'Born Free - Mandela's Generation of Hope' by Ilvy Njiokiktjien can be seen in the corridors of the ASCL (third floor) and on the first floor of the Pieter de la Court Building / Faculty of Social Sciences until 31 July 2022.

In 1994 South Africa held its first inclusive elections. These brought an end to decades of white minority rule. A new constitution gave all South Africans equal rights. As the first black president, Nelson Mandela focused on reconciliation and hope for the future. It would be up to the young generation to make his dream of a rainbow nation come true.

During her work in South Africa, photo journalist Ilvy Njiokiktjien became intrigued by these born-frees, born after the end of apartheid. She portrays them in her own, personal and sometimes intimate style. “There is equality on paper now, but many still experience the consequences of apartheid.”

The opening of the exhibition consists of a short documentary based on the photo series, an introduction by Prof. Jan-Bart Gewald and a guided tour by Ilvy Njiokiktjien.

Read more on the Born Free website.

This exhibition has been organised in the framework of European City of Science: Leiden2022 and has been made possible by Gemeente Leiden.