The Ink Link: Zane Gomes, climbing mountains to see the world

Zane on a mountain and an adventure

The Ink Link is an ongoing project at CN&CO that showcases tattoos in the workplace. One of the great things about a tattoo is it goes against the commonly-held viewpoint that “what you see is what you get”. There’s a misguided belief in certain quarters that in order to be a working professional, it is categorically impossible to have a tattoo… because how can someone with a tattoo be a professional? We are putting paid to that perception through the stories showcased in the Ink Link. If you or anyone you know would like to be featured, please get in contact with us.

This week we feature, Zane Gomes, an engineer and good friend of Gianluca Tucci. Zane is a South African/Portuguese guy with an incredibly passionate and energetic outlook on life. When he isn’t busy applying his analytical mind to buildings and construction sites, he is on an adventure, discovering new places (locally and abroad), people and ways to be active.

Zane has three tattoos, each located on not-too-obvious locations on his body. They are small in size but big in impact and meaning! He shares a bit about each of them below…

The Mountain (on his right bicep and pictured on the header of this blog)
Quite simply, this represents the adventurer in Zane. An outdoorsman and active being who is always ready to explore a new place, face an obstacle and learn something or two while doing it. The motto written below the tattoo of the mountain, ‘live the adventure’ talks deeply to Zane’s character and life. He is always seeking a new experience that introduces and allows him to share in it with people and the surroundings. In addition, the mountain and motto link back to one of his favourite quotes which says, “Don’t climb the mountain so the world can see you, climb the mountain so you can see the world.”

The Four symbols (side of his wrist) A small, eloquent addition that visually looks like a mathematical symbol and is a way of linking back to his passion for maths and his everyday work. The deeper meaning behind the symbols remind him always that God is greater than your highs and lows. The way Zane sums it up is that it’s a close reminder of approaching all the equations, experiences, blessings and obstacles life brings each day.

Africa (on his right ankle) As a family person and proud South African this tattoo talks to his homeland and heritage where he was born and raised. The symbol of the African continent is close to his heart and no matter where he goes and explores he keeps a part of Africa with him always.

Thanks for sharing your tats with us, Zane!

Your story is another example of the power tattoos play in one’s life and purpose. Next time you are in Cape Town we’ll connect you with our own adventurer, Blake Dyason, together, we have no doubt you will certainly find a new view and obstacle to embrace and enjoy. And who knows, perhaps it will lead to a new tattoo!