Julie Mentor, leader of Embrace – the Movement for Mothers, speaks at the launch of Sharing the Motherload. She reflects on how the project shapes Embrace’s work on maternal mental health and the power of naming the invisible load mothers carry – the Motherload. Also pictured: visitors from The School of Hard Knocks (SoHK).

Visitors move through the exhibition, reflecting on the mothers’ Calls to Action.

A visitor is taking in the powerful images and stories shared by mothers.

Co-researcher Chris Mfiki speaks about how the project reshaped his understanding of care work: “It’s a work in progress for us fathers, but we need to find that balance – in our families, communities, and society.”

Visitors viewing a father’s Call to Action: “Address absent fathers”.

Co-researcher Zaakira Peck at the Sharing the Motherload exhibition opening.

Members of The Motherload Project team. Top row (left to right): Thandiwe Msebenzi, Fiona Ross, Zaakira Peck, Almaaz Abrahams, Masibulele Makhaluza, Ncumisa Mqwaki, Nomboniso Bunu, Mandla “Jah Kongo” Qotsini, Chris Mfiki, Sibulele Mbasane, Ayabulela Ntwakumba, Onwabile Matolo, Thandile Xesi, Olwethu Mdlazeka, Wanga Zembe, Phiwe Mgwiji, Tsepo “Judah” Mtwana. Seated: Ameeta Jaga, Phiwe Mgwiji, Tsepo “Judah” Mtwana, Nolin Christians, Nadine Nagan, Ruth Mathys.

Visitors to the exhibition, including Tristan Görgens, Director: Policy, Strategy and Research, Department of the Premier, Western Cape Government, policy partner of The Motherload Project’.

The curator of the exhibition, Thandiwe Msebenzi, opens the launch with song and dance, welcoming the mothers and fathers to celebrate their work.