The Heart That Connects Us
It’s been a season of growth and beautiful collaborations. I recently had the honour of being part of Walk With Me, a mental health project by Impundu Arts, a platform that uplifts women artists. The exhibition took place in Accra and gathered ten contemporary women whose works explored art, wellness, and community. It’s been such a rich experience, and it connects with the story behind our next piece: ZINA.
"The Infinity of Empathy"
For those who are new here, the I AM Collection continues the journey that began with NITA, which told the story of a woman’s path to self-discovery. I AM represents her rebirth. She now moves with awareness of her power, emotions, and inner strength. She knows that everything begins within.
From self-knowledge comes confidence. From confidence flows resilience, empathy, and service, which are the five pillars of Ubuntu.
Today, we explore the third one: Empathy, represented by ZINA.
What makes ZINA special to me is that it was designed by my sister, who is also the one who designed JUZI from the NITA Collection. It’s no coincidence that both designs are connected through the infinity symbol, a reminder that everything begins and flows from within.
Empathy, to me, is the natural extension of self-awareness. Once you truly see yourself, it becomes easier to understand others. You recognise that everyone is on their own journey with their own timing, lessons, and struggles. You begin to meet others with compassion rather than judgment.
The design of ZINA reflects that truth. The interwoven lines represent the many versions of ourselves. The layers are shaped by experience, emotion, and relationship. They coexist in harmony, balanced through awareness and growth.
So, ZINA reminds us that our evolution is connected to our community. We expand through connection, through love, through the willingness to truly see one another.
In Swahili, Zina means “Secret spirit,” an understanding of the feelings and emotions that move others. That’s what empathy is: an invisible bridge built through kindness, presence, and understanding.
Next, we’ll talk about NIA, inspired by service, the final step in this journey of remembering.
With Love,
Svetta
