✨Brave Like Me!✨
Written by Zulaikha Patel
Published by Pan Macmillan Children's Books South Africa
Published by Pan Macmillan Children's Books South Africa
2025
Zulaikha Patel is a fearless South African advocate for equality and her incredible journey began at just 13! Zulaikha courageously took a stand against discriminatory hair policies at her school, igniting a nationwide movement for change.
“Asking me to change my hair is like asking me to erase my blackness.”
- Zulaikha Patel, June 2016.
That moment didn’t just change school policy—it ignited a movement, inspired nationwide solidarity, and earned her a place on BBC’s 100 Women of 2016. Brave Like Me! brings that same fearless spirit to the page, empowering young readers to own their identity, speak up, and walk tall!
I'm so honoured to have created the artwork to this inspiring story. I wanted every brushstroke and every colour to echo the courage, strength, and hope that shines through this powerful story. The style is bold, expressive, and full of heart — inspired by the bravery of young voices rising up.
✨Brave Like Me!✨is available in multiple South African languages, including isiXhosa, isiZulu, Afrikaans, and isiNdebele.
Bringing Zulaikha Patel’s story to life through four life stages was a rewarding challenge.
I worked from photo references to capture her likeness - but just as important was crafting a consistent and evolving character design from baby through to the young woman she is today. Every stage needed to feel true to her journey. A story full of heart, identity, and growth.
