We were truly honoured to be part of the very first National Obatala Festival 2026 in Trinidad

From the moment we arrived, we were welcomed with such warmth, generosity and openness, and made to feel not just like guests, but an integral part of the festival itself. That deep sense of belonging is something we will carry with us for a long time.

The Obatala Festival holds profound meaning, honouring Obatala, the Orisha of wisdom, clarity, peace and creation. To witness this sacred celebration come to life on a national stage, rooted in history, spirituality and community, was deeply moving.

We felt genuinely humbled and honoured to stand alongside elders, practitioners, organisers and participants who made this historic moment possible.

We were also delighted to experience the festival in the company of Mar Alan Vaughan and Moko Somokow, alongside Daniel Bascombe, who also performed at Barking and Dagenham Carnival 2025, and Shynel Brizan, twice crowned Queen of Carnival in Trinidad. Sharing this powerful and historic moment with such inspiring cultural leaders and artists made the experience even more special.

Being back in Trinidad is always a joy, and this visit feels especially significant. We are delighted to be here once again to support our ongoing learning, understanding and research, and to continue deepening our connection with the culture, traditions and people who so generously share this rich heritage.

Thank you, Trinidad, for the welcome, the wisdom and the honour. This was history in the making, and we are grateful to have been part of it.