Imari’s early years weren’t defined by playgrounds, but by hospital rooms and the heavy reality of multiple brain surgeries. It’s a journey that could have dimmed anyone’s light, but not Imari’s. She turned it into her very own colouring book to bring hope to others!
Durban, South Africa (17 March 2026) – There is something profoundly beautiful about watching someone take the very fire meant to consume them and using it instead to light the way for everyone else.
The same can be said for Imari James, a nine-year-old girl who’s already faced challenges and complications beyond her years. Diagnosed with hydrocephalus, which causes a build-up of fluid in the brain, Imari’s newborn moments were mostly spent in hospitals.
“Becoming a mother is usually filled with joyful ‘firsts’, but my experience as a first-time mom was very different. I remember changing my tiny newborn while she still had drips attached and was recovering from surgery,” Imari’s mother, Iman, shares with us.
“As time went on, she would reach milestones, only for us to face another surgery and feel like we were starting from the beginning again. At different points, the pressure in her head caused her to temporarily lose her vision, temporary paralysis, and even developed Bell’s palsy. Watching your child go through that is incredibly painful, but she fought through every challenge with unbelievable strength.”
Iman also drew strength and encouragement from the mothers’ lodge at Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital, where she met other mothers going through similar experiences.
The journey has been heavy, and the multiple surgeries as agonising as they were long. Yet, this little girl came into the world with a spirit that refused to succumb and a light that has since extended to reach so many others.
“Imari’s bravery gave me strength. Even after everything she has faced, she continues to smile, laugh, and remind me every day how resilient the human spirit can be.”
Even during the difficult times, Imari finds a way to lift others. Sharing videos on TikTok, she often delivers little reminders that resonate with many people in need of a little inspiration. Her favourite being: “Different doesn’t mean less. It just means special.”
“Her positivity has touched thousands of people online. Through our TikTok community of over 200,000 followers, families from around the world have connected with Imari’s story and drawn strength from her journey,” Iman says.
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Entrepreneur Who Used to Sell Muffins Reunites with the Kind Woman Who Rooted for HimThis positivity has even taken a creative form with Imari recently creating her very own colouring book, One Thing About Two Things – inspired by her medical journey and seeking to brighten up the lives of others.
“Creating the colouring book was something very special for us. It was born from the idea that every child should feel proud of who they are, even if their journey looks different. The pages are filled with fun illustrations that encourage creativity, confidence, and imagination.”
The book also helps children understand hydrocephalus in a gentle, age-appropriate way while offering hope and encouragement to parents facing medical challenges.
This bright and bubbly creative has big dreams. Right now, Imari says she would love to become a chef one day, driven by her love for food and the joy of making people happy through her cooking.
Imari lives to spread smiles, hope, and good vibes – and we are celebrating her loudly! You can find her inspiring book on Amazon and her inspiring videos and messages on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
Sources: Iman James
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