By: Linda Hollmann, Program Coordinator Winter ‘24
As in many parts of the world, this past week in Shandia was all about the celebration of Carnaval. Originally coming from an area that calls the local Carnival the annual “fifth season”, I was especially excited to see what Carnaval in Ecuador would look like. What would the local customs, foods and music be like? Since arriving to Ecuador this was one weekend the entire on-site Manna team was looking forward to.
What Carnaval would turn out to be, exceeded all of our expectations. It is hard to put into words what in fact was a special sentiment. The celebrations started for us on Friday, when the school was having a sports day. Students of all ages were competing in their classes in soccer matches against each other. All of us volunteers cheered especially loud for the classes we taught or have Kichwa class with. It was probably the most colorful sporting event I have seen so far, as most players and visitors would get face paint smeared into their faces and sprayed with a foam. All of it being accompanied by music and just plenty of laughter.
As Manna Project International, we felt honored that our country director Sarah was invited to say a few words about our collaboration with the community in the opening ceremony.
The main event was on Sunday at Shandia beach. It started in the morning and lasted until long after sunset. Time just flew by with everything that was going on: local music, competitions and plenty of food were offered all day long. Everyone was targeting each other for surprise color attacks with face paint and foam, the river was constantly busy with people cooling off from the heat or being thrown in there, and locals and visitors alike mingled to enjoy music and foods. Competitions ranged from Ecuadorian Volleyball to a Chicha (a traditional beverage) drinking contest. Even for the rafting tourist group arriving at the beach during their tour, this view was a pleasant surprise. Within minutes their faces were equally covered in blue, black, red and yellow accompanied by their big smiles.
That is what makes this day so special: EVERYONE was welcome. There was no division between locals and visitors, age groups or anything else. All participants were enjoying their time, meeting old and new friends, and indulging in this traditional event. In the end it was a day to celebrate the joy of community. Even if carnival has different shapes and forms, wherever you celebrate it, one is true for all of it: Carnaval is a feeling!
Linda Hollmann is a Program Coordinator in January 2024 - March 2024. She is originally from Germany and is currently taking advantage of a social impact sabbatical through her company. With a background in ecotourism and travel, she is helping MPI strengthen existing ecotourism endeavors in the community of Shandia.