Also known as 'Mami Wata' in many parts of Africa where she originated from, brought to the new world by African slaves. I vaguely recall parts of my childhood spent in Ghana in my grandmother's house, however I do vividly remember my older cousins teasing me by saying; "mami wata will come for you when... Continue Reading →
Amigos da Bahia… Japan!
The relationship between Brazil and Japan goes beyond economic relations between the two countries... It extends to music; samba! I got these shots of this Japanese samba band parading at the festa de Yemaja... They certainly had me on my feet doing a little samba!
Lavagem Itapua 2013
By word of mouth the saying goes; African slaves weren't allowed in the churches during the time of slavery and they were made to wash the steps of the churches. Today Lavagem Itapua is a festival paying homage to Afro-Brazilian tradition. The traditional 'Laundering Itapuã' is amongst the most famous and oldest religious festivals that... Continue Reading →
Adjusting to Salvador…
It's been a while since I updated my blog- apologies! Lets just say I'm adjusting to Salvador! Every corner has something intriguing to offer... And nothing here is done in haste! When I think of Bahia, I immediately think of it's capital Salvador and it's strong Afro-Brazilian culture. Little did I know areas of Bahia,... Continue Reading →
Cape Verde… Reaching for the top!
I was so excited to receive the news that the African Cup of Nations underdogs Dreamweavers of Cape Verde Islands have made it to the quarter-finals of the football tournament taking place in South Africa, after a 2-1 victory against Angola on sunday. We all love an underdog victory! In their first ever appearance in... Continue Reading →
Journey through History in Brazil… The Malê Revolt.
To get a better understanding of who the Tabom returnees were, I'm looking into the social context of society in Bahia at the time, and what would become perhaps the most significant slave rebellion in Brazil; The Malê Revolt. And perhaps it is destiny, rather than a coincidence, that I, a descendant of an Afro-Brazilian,... Continue Reading →
When Salvador stole my heart…
A collection of pictures from my first ever visit to Salvador, Bahia in 2009. Little did I know about my ancestral (TABOM) connection with this city. Salvador still managed to leave a profound impact on me with all its glory; from history and culture to the people and food! It's no wonder I claimed to... Continue Reading →
Curves of Architecture: MAC- Museu de Arte Contemporânea, Niterói
This famous creation by Oscar Niemeyer completed in 1996, can be found across the Rio-Niteroi bridge from Rio de Janeiro City. The futuristic building is beyond its time, resembling a floating flying saucer over Niteroi bay. It's circular interior exposes stunning panoramic views across Guanabara Bay, along side a range of Contemporary art. The the basement... Continue Reading →
Culture shock!… Why am I being stared at?!
This morning and indeed afternoon, I was in a bubble! It's my first time in Buenos Aires! I was happily seeing the city with my host Jerry. I took every stare from passers by as an innocent glance; they must like what I'm wearing! Then my host had to go so I was left exploring... Continue Reading →
Lapa… Stepping Up!
You'll probably recognise these steps from the scenes of Snoop Dog ft Pharell music video - Beautiful... And these steps are just that! The iconic, world-famous Escadaria Selarón steps lie a short stroll from the roman-style arches of Lapa in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. On a visit you might actually be lucky enough to bump... Continue Reading →