50th Anniversary: One Of The Most Iconic Pictures In The World

Two weeks ago on May 24th, 2022, I had what I consider the biggest honour of my life.

To not only sit and listen to they story of Kim Phuc, who 50 years ago today became the ‘Napalm Girl’ after her town was attacked from the skies. But, also to come to know her as one of the most divine human beings and also as a friend, having spent a week with her on Necker Island as part of a leadership gathering with Business Chicks.

Kim’s picture has become a defining image of the Vietnam war. But, it has also become Kims purpose to work ‘with’ her picture rather than against it to show others how much hope there is in the world. She survived! She talked at length about how she fought against her photograph for so many years. As a marker of her pain, her burns, her scars, she tried in vain to shed the image and identity that was defining her in a war; a moment in time.

However, after putting down new roots for a positive future in Canada she suddenly realised that by embracing her identity and her picture rather than trying to extract herself from the story that had followed her all her life. she learnt that her purpose was greater than she could have ever imagined.

Meeting Kim and sharing such a magical few days with her has changed the way I view the awesomeness of humanity. She says, “Everyone can live with love, with hope, and forgiveness” and now makes it her life’s work to share her message with her global audience.

Kim…you are one of the most beautiful souls on this planet and I am honoured to have met you. My heart is with you today on the 8th June, on the 50th anniversary I know you are marking so purposefully.