I had a wonderful day with Peris Kateki, her sisters, daughter and grand children, and Joy. Peris is such a strong, courageous, kind and talented woman. The other women in her family are also very talented, strong and sweet, and it was lovely to have the little boys and animals join us as well. I felt a deep connection, sense of sistering, and inspiration drinking chai, heading, dancing, sharing cultural stories, and learning about the women's lives, struggles, accomplishments and joys. Alhough the cultural and societal tradition, beliefs and experiences of these Massive women in Kajiado are unique to their lands, place, history and sociopolitical impacts, there are many threads of resonance with my own Indigenous and mixed cultures and practices, and experiences with my mother. It was a deeply moving and beautiful experience and I am so grateful for such a unique opportunity.
Young Joy was a wonderful co-host and translator, and very passionate about this community engagement work.