It’s the last day of October but that does not mean the new trailers stop!! What better way to close the month than to showcase some HOT new trailers!! Check them out below:
Manodrome (In theaters November 10th)
The Killer (Streaming on Netflix November 10th)
Dashing Through The Snow (Streaming on Disney+ November 17th)
Stamped From the Beginning (Streaming on Netflix November 20th)
Today was a day of transit and rest! Leaving the beautiful and breathtaking Serengeti! As mentioned in previous posts the past few days have been unforgettable and will be embedded in my memory.
Now as we made our way to Zanzibar (also known as Unguja) we would board a plane that I kid you not could only hold 12 passengers and the two pilots. Another unforgettable experience…I literally was a seat away from the pilots. Talk about flying on a small plane (see below)…
Our plane for the trip between Serengeti and ZanzibarAerial views flying over Zanzibar city
Once we landed in Zanzibar I would have somewhat of an awakening. First off Zanzibar is actually an island province that is still part of Tanzania. So we were literally leaving grasslands and plains entering an urban city landscape. As we were flying over the city, the aerial views showed just how jammed packed the city is. Now while their is a similar landscape to the mainland, you can see a distinct change in Zanzibar. It is also very clear there is definitely a heavy middle eastern influence, as the majority (99%) of the island practices Islam, with a very small percentage that practices Christianity.
This would put things into perspective…when talking with people from the Tanzanian mainland many have expressed how the President is preferred to come from the mainland and have the vice president from Zanzibar. There tends to be different leadership styles from both roles. Currently the President of Tanzania is from Zanzibar (and is the first woman president) due to the President passing away from COVID-19. A example of the VP stepping in.
Another awakening moment was how perceived what Zanzibar would look like upon my arrival. I will admit when I thought of Zanzibar I pictured primarily beaches and five-star resorts or something from a spy action movie…think Queen Sono (Netflix), but there is definitely a deep history here as well considering during the mid-19th century as many as 50,000 enslaved people came through through the Zanzibar City port.
More to come on that in the coming days.
As stated earlier today was more of a day of transit and rest, not too much to report. However, I’m looking forward to a little R&R as well as making some more memories!!
What a day!! There are many moments where you will watch something on tv or read in a book that make you say, “I wish I could be there” or “I wonder what it would be like to see a community in their natural element. Well today I was able make that happen when visiting a Maasai village. I have read about them, seen them portrayed in movies, featured in documentaries, but here was a moment to witness them in all their glory!
A brief history…The Maasai is a community of people that inhabit the northern, central and southern part of Kenya and northern part of Tanzania. They are known for their residence near many game parks/reserves of the African Great Lakes, their warrior style of fighting, and their distinctive customs and attire. While the last Census in 2019 of the Maasai population was reported as numbering 1,189,522 in Kenya this may be skewed as many of the Maasai view the census as government meddling and often either refuse to participate or actively provide false information. I can definitely respect this move and also count it fortunate that they even allowed us into their space. I will say they definitely encouraged us to take pictures and video and they even let us wear some of the garments during the visit.
Dr. G dressed in traditional Maasai attire with some of the Maasai women
The Maasai are very much a self-sustaining community that rely on cattle for wealth (although they are very familiar with the US Dollar) and the men and women each play an active role in maintaining its existence. Interesting enough the women I would say in many ways take on a great deal of the tasks whether it is teaching the kindergarten classes, bearing children, selling goods in the market and building the homes that they live in. The role of Black and African women is in many ways universal.
Some other interesting things to note include:
The Maasai people were against slavery and never condoned the trafficking of human beings, thus those outsiders looking for people to enslave avoided the Maasai
All of the Maasai’s needs for food are met by their cattle. Not only do they eat their meat, but drink their milk daily, and sometimes drink their blood. Goats and lamb are slaughtered for meat on special occasions and ceremonies.
A big part of their culture also includes music and dance. Upon entering the village we would participate in the welcome dance and jumping competition. I appreciated taking part in this as we were not just simply bystanders looking on (see the above video).
One other thing that would stand out for me was the 5-step progression of boys to elders. Between the ages of 12-15 the young Maasai boys are circumcised making this the first step into manhood, then at age 15 they are trained to become warriors (this lasts for 9 years), after they become middle man, from there a man at which point they are eligible to be married, and then the final stage is becoming an elder.
As an extra bonus, the professor/teacher in me, I was elated to be able to see the kindergarten class in session. I love when children have such enthusiasm…
These past few days have truly been enlightening and confirming! This would be another time coming to the continent and feeling like being in a second home. On our way to dinner one of the Maasai asked us where we were from and when we replied USA/America, he would then in turn tell us “you look like you are African, like you belong here…” That hit deep for me because I am real big person on this idea of “Home” and belonging. For him and several others to say we are Home it really makes you think who we are and where we fit in.
Let me tell you I AM PROUD to be a BLACK WOMAN whose ancestors are from AFRICA!! No one can ever take that away!
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So today closes out our last day in the northern part of Tanzania, tomorrow we are headed to Zanzibar! I cannot wait to share what new experiences and memories will be gained!!
Today was one of those days where I got to check off a major activity on my bucket list…Going to the Serengeti!! I was like a kid in a candy store!! In many ways riding through the Serengeti (which in the Massai language means “endless plains”) I realized how much of the Lion King is based off of this region. It is also a protected national park that is one of the Seven Wonders of this World and spans across 12,000 square miles. It is also renowned for its massive lion populations, and this was definitely made evident on today…
While it was great to admire the many animals, riding through was also quite calming and peaceful. Considering all that has transpired for me personally and professionally this particular part of the trip was well needed. In many ways, riding through Serengeti National Park was like icing on the cake! It’s that sweet treat you’ve been waiting for after a great workout!!
Dr. G getting ready to enter Serengeti National Park!!
The Serengeti is home to a mass amount of grazers (elephants, gazelles, warthogs, giraffes, zebras, among others) and is maintained by the Tanzanian and Kenyan governments.
Some of the many miles of plains at Serengeti National Park. Photo credit: Dr. G
In addition to visiting the Serengeti we got an opportunity to visit The Olduvai Gorge. Here at this gorge which is known as the “Cradle of Mankind” due to it being the site of the first human remains of the first human being to walk on Earth. Talk about seeing the first footsteps of mankind…
Dr. G standing in front of the Oldupai Gorge (also known as Olduvai Gorge) Photo credit: Dr. G
Super glad I was able to share some more highlights with you all, I was not sure if I would have Wi-Fi, but I pulled out the W! Continue to stay tuned and I will see you tomorrow!
So you all know I LOVE to travel!! Always collecting new stamps for the passport!!
Every now and then I like to chronicle my journey especially if its in a new place!! So over the next few days I will be documenting my time all throughout Tanzania!! I am so excited to share this experience with you all!! Located in the eastern part of Africa, Tanzania is known for its lush nature, an array of sites, places, and things to do!!
One can visit the tallest mountain in Africa Mount Kilimanjaro, visit the internationally known Ngorongoro Crater and see the “Big 5,” trek through the Serengeti National Park (a safari Mecca), and explore the markets and deep history of Zanzibar!
Day 1: Landing at Kilimanjaro International Airport
Just a few highlights! So arriving safe and sound to Tanzania, talk about a long journey! In total the flight was about 15 hours, and the time quickly moved forward 7 hours ahead (for my Eastern Time Zone folks). I will say the airport at Kilimanjaro was probably one the easiest and painless airports to get through, and trust me when I tell I have experienced some trauma (talking about you Amsterdam)!! Got our luggage and headed to our stay for the night!!
Once settled in, grabbed a bite to eat and chilled for the rest of the evening! First meal (see below) in Tanzania gets a strong A in my grade book! I had a coconut sauce crusted sautéed perch with sliced potatoes, grilled vegetables, and a Stoney Tangawizi (which is their brand of ginger beer). [FYI I will be partaking in Tangawizi just about every day!!] This meal marks the beginning of what I know is going to be an AMAZING holiday!!
Gonna be some fun times!! New memories loading soon….
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In addition to starting my #TanzaniaJourneyTravels today, let me also mention that today is World Tourism Day!! Perfect way to kick things off!! So World Tourism Day is celebrated every year to focus on promoting tourism in various parts of the world. Initiated by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), World Tourism Day aims to make people understand the joy of exploring the world. And I could not agree more with this mantra! One thing that I always promise myself is to take at least one international trip every year. I’m just grateful that I am able to do so because there is so much to learn and gain from see what the world has to offer!
So start planning your next global adventure!!
Make sure to stay tuned each day for a daily dose of Dr. G’s #TanzaniaJourneyTravels !!
So it is nothing like having good friends who keep you posted on new goodies that are dropping within the pop culture arena! While preparing for our weekly writing session, my colleague and friend Michael Hall shared with me a new Disney+ animated anthology series that dropped last week called Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire! Immediately I did a quick Google search and to my delight, I was hooked! Premiering on July 5th Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire is a new series that blends elements of Africanfuturism, Afrofuturism, cyberpunk, sci-fi, and fantasy to tell 10 inclusive stories of African histories and cultures.
“This is Africa as you’ve never seen it before.” Advanced technology, spirits, aliens, and time travel…SIGN ME UP!!
Produced by Triggerfish Animation Studios and Walt Disney Animation Studios, executive produced by Oscar-winning director Peter Ramsey (Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse, Rise of the Guardians) with Tendayi Nyeke and Anthony Silverston as supervising producers, Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire is what Ramsey describes as a series with “recognizable genres and recognizable aspects of contemporary culture, but they’re wrapped in African culture.”You got my attention! Plus the representation of the African diaspora is in full effect, with stories from such countries as South Africa, Egypt, Kenya, Nigeria, Uganda, and Zimbabwe…GAME CHANGER!!
With a cast that includes Florence Kasumba (Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Captain America: Civil War, Wonder Woman, “Emerald City”), Kehinde Bankole (“Desperate Housewives Africa”, Blood Sisters), Nasty C (“Blood & Water”), Mo Ismail (“Star Trek Beyond”, ) and a plethora of up-and-coming African talent, Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire is definitely gonna change the game of how we tell animated stories!!
Now while I have not watched the series as of yet, I am already convinced this is legit greatness right here!! Just going off the trailer, the diverse representation, vibrant animation still shots, the voice cast, and the series direction, I’m willing to put my money on it sight unseen!
Photo Credit: Disney
This is totally in my personal and professional wheelhouse!! I am loving that more diverse African stories are being told and shared!! Cause trust me that content has and is there, the whole world just needs to see it!!
And just in case you need a little more convincing see the trailer below:
I am totally hyped about this series and siked that ALL episodes are available to watch!
I know what I will be binging on tonight!!
Hit me up in the comments and let me know what you think!!
Murals have been part of our global and cultural landscape for many, many years. I am always a fan of seeing what beautiful images are displayed on the walls of the various places that I visit and where I live. One of the great things about murals and street art is how they bring up feelings of pride, legacy, empowerment, and freedom. Murals and street art bring people together to celebrate the heritage and history of one’s neighborhood and community.
Here are some reasons why murals and street art are important and necessary:
Both create vibrant neighborhoods that invite people to visit, live in, and take careof
Murals encourage you to take time and admire your surroundings
Convey social and political messages/Create important conversations and expanding thought
They can potentially generate revenue for local businesses
People can feel represented and see themselves in the art
In the past few years, there has been an increased interest in this global ephemeral form of art, which is seeming to develop a sub-culture all its own. Moreover, today’s #BlackJoy Moment is about showcasing Black murals across the globe!! Check out some of the amazing murals that can be seen all over the world…
“The Journey Forward“… Artists: Nadd Harvin and Humble (Mended Walls project)… Where to find: 319 Brook RD, Richmond, VA
“We Still Here!“ … Artist: Gaia, Jetsonorama, & Ursula Rucker… Where to find: 22 Maplewood Mall, Philadelphia, PA
“We Rise” … Artist: Rachel Wolfe Goldsmith … Where to find: Lane Community College – Mary Spilde Center, Eugene, OR
“Unknown Name” … Artist: Nardstar … Where to find it: Observatory neighborhood/Side street off Lower Main Road, Cape Town South Africa
“Strange Fruit”… Artist: Dammit Wesley … Where to find it: 345 N. College St. Charlotte, NC
“Take My Hand” … Artist: Michael Rosato … Where to find it: On the side of the Harriet Tubman Museum & Educational Center, 424 Race Street, Cambridge, MD
“The Torch” … Artists: Aniekan Udofia with Mia Duval …. Where to find it: On the side of Ben’s Chili Bowl 1228 U St. NW Washington, DC
“Helping Hands” … Artist: Muhammad Yungai…Where to find: 111 James P. Brawley Dr. SW, Atlanta, GA
“You cannot enjoy the rhythm and ignore the blues.” … Artist: Shona Hardie … Where to find: Dance Base, 14-16 Grassmarket, Edinburgh EH1 2JU, UK
“Black Lives Matter”…Artists: Jujmo (B), John Gascot (L), Cam Parker (A), Catherine Weaver (C), Nuclear Sky (K) Wayward Walls (L), Laura Spencer (I), James E (V), Esh (E ), Jade Jackson (S) James Freeman Kitchens (M), MegaSupremo (A), Von Walters (T), Plum Howlett (T), Melanie Posner (E), Daniel R5 Barojas (R) … Where to find: In front of the Dr. Carter G. Woodson African-American Museum, St. Petersburg, FL
We are back for the new year!! And you know the recommendations don’t stop!! Got a fresh new slate of literary goodies to fill your book shelves!! I’m bringing you all the heat with this list!! Feel free to share with your friends!!
Check out January’s list below:
Boys Come First ~Aaron Foley
Land of Love and Drowning ~Tiphanie Yanique
On the Roof Top ~Margaret Wilkerson Sexton
American Spy ~Lauren Wilkinson
Grace ~Natashia Deón
The Keeper ~Tananarive Due and Steven Barnes
The Stars Beneath Our Feet ~David Barclay Moore
Beasts of Prey ~Ayana Gray
And remember you can always go back and check out the previous month’s list and past recommendations in the “Resource” section of the website!!
“Never be limited by other people’s limited imaginations…If you adopt their attitudes, then the possibility won’t exist because you’ll have already shut it out…You can hear other people’s wisdom, but you’ve got to re-evaluate the world for yourself.” —Mae Jemison
Keeping up with my tradition from 2020 and 2021 I have compiled my ‘Top 22’ books from this year!! I feel like I always have an endless supply of books, you can never have too many! Plus I love seeing my library grow!!
This year I added a few graphic novels that caught my attention during one of my many travels this year!!
All in all, I love sharing some of my top reading faves!! As I always say, ‘sharing is caring.’
So in no particular order, here is my Top 22 List of Books for 2022!!
Black Panther: Wakanda Forever the Courage to Dream ~Frederick Joseph
The Keeper ~Tananarive Due & Steven Barnes
Take My Hand ~Dolen Perkins-Valdez
Red Lip Theology: For Church Girls Who’ve Considered Tithing to the Beauty Supply Store When Sunday Morning Isn’t Enough ~Candice Marie Benbow
The Silent Twins ~Marjorie Wallace
The Light We Carry ~Michelle Obama
Black Disability Politics ~Sami Schalk
Riding Jane Crow:African American Women on the American Railroad ~Miriam Thaggert
Finding Me ~Viola Davis
Walking in My Joy In These Streets ~Jenifer Lewis
Surviving Southampton: African American Women and Resistance in Nat Turner’s Community ~Vanessa M. Holden
Black Future Feminist 