The plane ride over to Cape Town

 Following the big visit, we traveled 4 hours as part of the charter convoy that brought Mrs. Obama, Ms. French Gates and Mrs. Clooney to Cape Town. There were two planes— I was aboard the one filled with photographers, stylists, comms people, assistants and other folks like me. The plane itself was a regular

commercial aircraft but the ride felt like we were heading to summer camp. We had all spent the last two days together and another one in a new city awaited. The usual reserved setting of a plane ride was replaced with the noise of conversations and laughter. The South African wine was flowing and they served a pretty decent meal. 

Next day we attended a small conversation with an audience of about 200 people, tops. The first convo was a panel discussion between three program directors who are all on the ground working on ending child marriage in Africa. Our Country Director was a part of that conversation. (She is on the far right of this photo by the plane). After that, there was a second convo w/ Michelle, Melinda, Amal and the former First Lady of South Africa, Graça Machel. This was an inspiring moment— and a moment where I felt connected at the very soul, heart, interior of my self. A good feeling to be sure, to know with certainty that the work you are doing is worthwhile and important.