[21 Icons Season 3] Lucas Sithole

Sithole has been selected for 21 ICONS South Africa Season 3 to showcase that people can make the best of their situation if they are able to surpass adversity and strive to be the best version of themselves. Sithole is one of the faces of the Wheelchair Tennis South Africa organisation and optimistic about his role in society. He believes that by focusing on an end goal we can all have an impact on others and the world we live in. He is actively involved in promoting tennis to disabled people and advocating diversity in the sport and fights against stereotyping and intolerance of people with disabilities.

During a portrait sitting, Sithole tells Gary van Wyk how his life abruptly changed at age 12 when he was hit by a train in Dunhouser, KwaZulu-Natal. He lost both his legs and most of his right arm in the accident. However, this did not stop him from reaching for dreams and setting big goals. Despite being a triple amputee he set out to strive for greatness and has reached his goals.

About the portrait

For the portrait 'Against the Odds', Van Wyk describes the visual elements, "Sithole is photographed on a tennis court, racquet in hand, seated in the chair that he has collected his numerous titles in. With his fierce stare to camera and his racquet poised for battle, the lines of the tennis court converge to form V's for 'Victory' at different angles, representing Sithole's personal and professional battle to become the best at what he does."

View the video

About 21 Icons Season 3

The short film-series documents the conversations between Gary Van Wyk as the photographer and filmmaker and the icons. Each short film provides insight into both the subject and photographer's creative approach to the portrait.

Behind each portrait lies a carefully planned concept that captures not only the essence of each icon visually, but also in spirit and in terms of their unique legacy.

Season three of 21 ICONS South Africa is proudly sponsored by Mercedes-Benz South Africa.

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