Juanita, you were and are a force of nature. You entered my world like a hurricane, fierce and strong - and in the eye of the storm that was you - calm and beautiful. You carried that duality in you.

You were here for such a brief moment - in my life - but you absolutely touched my life and hundreds and perhaps thousands of lives in a way that I cannot begin to even fathom.

I believe it was our mutual friend Pierre du Plessis that made us aware of one another and shortly after that you were visiting family up north and you contacted me to collaborate on a photo session with Octavia Roodt. This was in October of 2018. Almost 4 years ago now. I could never have thought that you’d be gone so soon after this first encounter and the thought of future collaborations that will never be, but also the ones that will be, because of your connection to those people.

You then invited myself and Octavia to come and live with you for a few weeks in Franschhoek and do our own little artist residencies in February of 2019. I remember my nervous excitement.

You were and are this strange creative force that brought people together like atoms exploding in a tumult of creation. I cannot explain it, but those who know, know.

That time spent in your home was one of the most fulfilling I’ve ever experienced. You introduced me to so many people. Especially women, who were and are so inspirational to me. Benitha Vlok, Lynelle Kenned, Raquel van Haver, Sarah Andrews and many more I cannot now recall. People moved through your home like the wind. Effortless.

There is so much more to say, but there are people who are much more eloquent than me, so I will leave you here dear reader. If you knew Juanita, you know how many lives she influenced and touched. She will be missed and she is and was loved.

Juanita, you burned ferociously and that flame was doused way too soon, but you will be remembered by all of those left behind.
Thank you for your time and presence here with us. Love, all of us.