Creating Mada collective was just another reason for me to have the opportunity to help and support Vezo children in some of the most remote part of Madagascar where I intended to go adventure unexplored waves to surf.
The Vezo Tribe live in the south west region.
“Vezo” is a term that encapsulates their connection to the ocean, meaning both “the people who fish” and “to struggle with the sea”. It is a name that truly captures the essence of this remarkable tribe, who have learned to persevere against the powerful forces of the sea, day after day, in their pursuit of a better life.
The Vezo people embody the spirit of the sea, as they have lived and thrived off the fruits of the ocean for centuries. These semi-nomadic coastal dwellers are connected by their shared way of life and a deep love for the rolling waves and bountiful fishing grounds.
The Vezo owe their lives to the sea, and a Vezo child will have to learn to swim to become a member of the community. When asked what they will do when they grow up, it is likely that they will answer ‘I will fish’. At least, if they are a boy. For it is the men who are responsible for fishing.
The Vezo people have acquired great knowledge of the seabed. Their fishing techniques have changed very little over time: they still use nets, hooks and even harpoons while holding their breath under water. An essential work tool and a real object of pride, the lakana (or laka) is a traditional Vezo outrigger canoe. Its hull, hand-carved out of soft and light Farafatse wood, is narrow and slender to make navigating through the water easier.
The Vezo people always welcomed me with open arms, always keen to share their know-how and, above all, their way of life! When faced with the language barrier, music and dance will lead the way to friendly and unforgettable moments. They taught me moving lesson of humility and I always appreciate their supreme example of resilience.
Education is a beacon of hope. And I believe strongly by supporting my initiatives, we can empower Vezo children and shape brighter futures—one kid/one classroom at a time.
It all started in 2017. When my vision/ my Dream fell into places and I gave Mada collective a start. My first footprints in this surreal environment, I sponsored a couple kids and shared pre-loved clothes… In return they offered me their ”joie de vivre” & laughter’s. Priceless!
I fell in Love with their way of life, their remoteness, the waves…
My mission for the years to come is to bring Hope to this part of the planet totally undiscovered, to give a Vezo kid a new start by supporting them to attend remote school and lift them up out of the poverty trap somehow.
Longterm positive change is tricky in Africa but if we don’t make a start well who else will!!!?
Let’s encourage these children to have all the skills and capacities to make the world, their world, a better place.
Even if its just by learning how to write and read…
They all thrive to learn.
Every year I attempt to come back to Madagascar to create for Mada collective and support Vezo children and their families.
To be continued…
