Art that celebrates Pria Hassan
Advocate and business leader, Pria Hassan, was presented a painting of herself done by award-winning artist Nanda Soobben
Image: Facebook
ADVOCATE and business leader, Pria Hassan, was celebrated and honoured for her philanthropy, community upliftment activism and success as a businesswoman in the logistics sector, with the unveiling of a portrait.
Hassan is an advocate, founder and group executive of Women of Africa (WOA), a company focused on empowering women in business.
Her contribution in the various fields inspired internationally acclaimed cartoonist and artist Nanda Soobben to do a painting of her, which was presented to her at an event held last week.
Soobben said he needed to pay tribute to her by bringing some sanity to this world by using her and other women as a balance against the stupidity of men.
"I remember Pria for how she helped raise funds through KZN International Business Association (KIBA) in the aftermath of the KwaZulu-Natal floods and saving the Verulam Day Care Centre. This painting shows another side, not just a political cartoonist, but actually praising someone. An encouragement to others that people praise what they do," said Soobben.
Hassan said the event was more than a community gathering; it was a deeply personal milestone for her.
"For me, the evening was about empowerment. I ensured a host of women I mentor were in that room. My purpose was simple, to give them the courage to follow their own dreams, to own their own spotlight," she said.
Hassan said the unveiling of her portrait invoked a sense of grave humility.
"I was euphoric when I saw the painting. Nanda is an exceptional artist and a man that is so humble. He captured the rawness of my journey. The pain of years of loss, the trauma I’ve suffered, and the commitment to wellness that I fight so hard to maintain.
"Yet, the smile captured on my lips tells the triumphant side of the story. It celebrates the profound happiness of my four children’s graduations, their marriages, and the joy of my granddaughter. It’s a reflection of the deep love and gratitude I hold for my husband, my brothers, my mum, my late dad, and my sisters-in-law—in fact, every single member of my family and friends."
She said her portrait is a statement.
"It is my willingness to share every aspect of who I am with the world. To give all my positive energy and spirit. It’s a commitment to not hold back on the fear of failure and to look forward to a journey of success in happiness," said Hassan.
Omie Singh of KIBA, said Hassan's name was synonymous with compassion, leadership, and determination.
"Over the years, she has touched countless lives through her philanthropy, uplifted communities through her activism, and opened doors for many women through her example as a successful business leader in the logistics sector," said Singh.
He said the painting was as a symbol of the strength and grace of women who make a difference, and a reminder that art and leadership can intersect to tell stories that move generations.
"May this portrait inspire future generations to dream big, to serve selflessly, and to use their voices for good," said Singh.