By Dr Tanya Finnie
What an unforgettable evening. Last week, surrounded by familiar faces and new friends at Kalahari: A Taste of Africa, I had the joy of launching my memoir From Shadows to Safari – a moment that still fills me with gratitude and warmth. (Ok it was the second launch, but who is counting?)
Walking into the room, the first thing I noticed was the hum; the kind of gentle buzz that only exists when people arrive not out of obligation, but out of genuine community. The smell of home-cooked South African dishes. The laughter rolling across tables. The quiet moments where someone leaned in just a little closer, not wanting to miss a word.
There was joy, curiosity, and reflection. There was belonging.
And standing there, seeing familiar faces who have walked beside me across chapters, both personal and professional, I was reminded again why this book exists: because no journey happens alone.
Ubuntu: Lived, Not Spoken
Ubuntu, “I am because we are” wasn’t just referenced that night; it was embodied.
Ubuntu is not a slogan or a warm-and-fuzzy phrase for posters.
Ubuntu is presence. It is generosity. It is the kind of love that shows up with a casserole, a question, a reminder that you matter (and there was a gorgeous sign on the wall).
Every embrace, every shared story, every burst of laughter, even the playful scramble for extra boerewors, reflected Ubuntu in action. No one stood alone. We stood together.
That is the heartbeat of From Shadows to Safari: our strength is not born in perfection, but in community. Not in armour, but in authenticity. Not in solitary resilience, but in shared courage.
A Heartfelt Thank You
To our wonderful MC, Dr Paula Smith – thank you for holding the room with warmth, playfulness, and joy. Your “How well do you really know Tanya?” opener had us laughing and set the perfect tone for the evening.
To Sean and Emma of Kalahari – thank you for your hospitality, generosity, and beautiful contribution to the evening. The full plates and happy smiles were a true reflection of South African hospitality. Several guests shared that they felt transported – not just to Africa, but to memories of home and of times they felt seen.
And to each person who came along – thank you. Your presence, your support, and your spirit made this milestone unforgettable.
A Milestone Worth Sharing
I am deeply humbled to share that From Shadows to Safari became an Amazon Best Seller in:
🏆 Cultural and Regional Biographies
🏆 African Travel
🏆 Diversity & Multiculturalism (Social Science)
This recognition is not just mine; it belongs to everyone who has walked alongside me, and to every story that inspired these pages. Thank you for helping bring this message into the world.
Keep Walking with Me
We will be in Adelaide on 19 November, so come and see us there if you are in South Australia 👉 https://redheadcommunications.com/resources/events/
Alternatively you can explore photos, reflections, and continue the journey, visit my Living Book page: https://redheadcommunications.com/living-book/
And if this book or evening stirred something in you, share it with someone who needs a reminder to step forward with courage and connection. Because when we pass forward belonging, we don’t just spread ideas – we strengthen the communities that shape us. Here’s to courage, culture, and the lifelong practice of being human, together.
🧡 Ubuntu. Always.