A Call for Portraits of Resilience
How Wide is the Days to Live Portraiture Net?
When considering potential participants in the Days to Live project my thoughts extend beyond whether they will they inspire viewers with their unique stories of resilience and transformation to how much depth and diversity will they be able to bring.
I will caveat what I'm about to say by saying this is very much a project of serendipity and while it is important to define the project's parameters, I in no way intend to make it regimentally formulaic.
With that said let's delve into categories that resonate with the project's purpose.
Survivors of Critical Illness or Life-Threatening Situations, for example:
Organ transplant recipients who have embraced life post-surgery,
Cancer survivors who have redefined their purpose after treatment,
Survivors of major accidents who have found new ways to thrive,
People living with chronic illnesses who focus on living fully despite the challenges.
Advocates for Mental Health and Well-Being, for example:
Individuals who have overcome depression, anxiety, or trauma and now dedicate their lives to mental health advocacy,
Therapists or counselors who have their own journey of personal healing.
Inspirational Elders and Young Change Makers, for example:
Centenarians or seniors with stories of love, perseverance, and vitality,
Young adults or teenagers who have faced adversity and emerged stronger.
Creatives and Artists, for example:
Artists, writers, or performers who channel their struggles or life experiences into their art,
Photographers or filmmakers who use their medium to inspire others.
Everyday Heroes, for example:
First responders with stories of courage and renewal,
Educators who have transformed their communities,
Nurses, caregivers, or doctors who balance personal struggles with helping others.
Diverse Cultural and Socioeconomic Backgrounds, for example:
Refugees or immigrants who have rebuilt their lives in new countries,
Indigenous elders or youth who balance cultural heritage with modern challenges,
Individuals from economically disadvantaged backgrounds who have achieved significant milestones.
People Who Have Made Big Life Changes, for example:
Individuals who have undergone their own journey of Fierce Reinvention (to give a plug for my book of the same name),
Those who’ve left unfulfilling careers to pursue their passion (e.g., a corporate professional turned farmer or artist),
Individuals who’ve lost significant weight or made lifestyle changes to prioritize health.
Individuals Committed to Helping Others, for example:
Volunteers or nonprofit workers dedicated to community-building or global causes,
Spiritual leaders who focus on living with intention and compassion.
Public Figures or Influencers, for example:
Well-known individuals who openly share their stories of resilience (authors, motivational speakers, athletes),
Influential personalities advocating for personal growth and authenticity.
Ultimately, the aim is not to weight too heavily into any one category. My strategy is to ensure that a wide variety of experiences and perspectives is surfaced as this will enrich the narrative of the Days to Live project.
A Call to Action
And finally, yes I do have an ask for each and every one of you. Many of you fit into one or more of the categories I've outlined. Many more of you include people from these categories in your spheres of influence. Please step forward if you would like to be featured and please spread the word amongst your networks. This work is important to me and so very much needed out there today. Together, we can make a difference in the world.
:: Rand
All images copyright Rand Leeb-du Toit and Days to Live, 2025.