Ability activist features in 21 Icons

Founded by Australian Adrian Steirn, 21 Icons is a multi-media project that traces South Africa’s history over the course of its ‘three seasons’, moving from the fight for freedom to the country’s growth during democracy, and concluding with a vision of the future.

It is a celebration of individuals who inspire multitudes through their impact, integrity and influence using photography, film and narrative.

Mycroft was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, a neural brain condition that restricts movement, at just 11 months old. She may be confined to a wheelchair, but that has not slowed her down in any way. At nine years old she teamed up with her sister and three friends to raise R20 000 for her own motorised wheelchair.

Check out a short preview of Michaela’s interview:

Since then, Chaeli Campaign, a non-profit organisation has assisted more than 3 000 children to receive wheelchairs, hearing aids, food supplements and more.

Mycroft was selected for 21 Icons South Africa Season III because she uses her disability to take a stand against the world’s misconceptions about people whose mobility is affected and to highlight their potential using various international platforms. She is also a competitive wheelchair ballroom dancer in her spare time.

“A lot of people refer to me as a disability activist, but I don’t see myself that way. I focus on the ability. I concentrate on potential and empower people to see their own greatness,” she said.

Her portrait is titled Full Potential. Photographer, Gary Van Wyk explained the inspiration behind the shoot. “The image shows Mycroft in her wheelchair, leaning back and being supported by her ballroom dance partner. Dressed in a gown that she wears when competing in the Wheelchair Ballroom Dancing Championships, she is depicted in a manner that most would not expect from someone in her position.”

Mycroft’s portrait and her short film will feature on SABC 3 at 7.27pm on 1 November.

Details: www.21icons.com