My trip to Suriname wasn't planned long in advance. What was decisive was the fact that my father had to go to the hospital because he needed a new hip. Not a life-threatening operation, but if it was possible, I wanted to be there. With this decision, the Sabi Wiri Dei, which was actually scheduled later in the year, was also postponed.
Rosalia, daughter of top Model Rachel Ritfeld, the youngest visitor of the Kinky Hair Festival
My trip to Suriname wasn't planned long in advance. What was decisive was the fact that my father had to go to the hospital because he needed a new hip. Not a life-threatening operation, but if it was possible, I wanted to be there. With this decision, the Sabi Wiri Dei, which was actually scheduled later in the year, was also postponed. The two weeks flew by, but they were no less enjoyable.
Once I had the green light to screen the two newest kinky hair films "Beautiful, the Documentary" and "In our heads about our hair", I knew I had enough material to organize a more than enjoyable Sabi Wiri Dei. Besides sharing my newly acquired knowledge, I could also literally showcase the latest developments in kinky hair. After booking the only day Theater Unique was available, I also booked a return flight from JFK to PBM. Less than two weeks later, I set off to Jopie Pengel Airport full of good cheer.
Here's a report from the youth news, thanks to AnnegrietW.
Although my thoughts were with my father's operation and what was to come, it was wonderful to land on Surinamese soil. The smell, the warmth, the people, it's familiar, it's home. My dear cousins had planned a lunch for me even before I had properly arrived, and before I knew it, my always helpful cousin William was at the door to drive me to "Lekker" on Johannes Mugrastraat. The hours of pleasant catching up felt like a wonderful welcome. After this cozy get-together, almost everything moved at lightning speed.
ABC, STVS, and Jeugd Journaal were all curious about the Kinky Hair festival and what it would bring. That's always nice, of course. They filmed some great clips, which I was very happy with. It was a shame that the items would be broadcast after the first Kinky Hair Film Festival, but nevertheless, I looked forward to the day at Theater Unique.
Once the doors of Unique were open, the program could begin. I didn't have an exact idea of what it would be, but I'm very happy that I scheduled the photoshoot. By taking photos, I learned more about the hair and the motivation of the visitors to the site and the festival. For example, I met Patricia Bonte, whom I only knew from the photo she had submitted, in person, admired her beautiful hairstyle, and was able to photograph her myself.
Another highlight was meeting Amy Adams again. This lovely teacher had not only attended the first Sabi Wiri Dei in 2003, but the gathering had also inspired her to lock her hair. Her shoulder-length dreadlocks are as old as the first Kinky Hair meeting in Unique, she proudly told me. Well, I can tell you that she is not the only one who is proud. I love hearing stories like Amy's. That's what I do kroeshaar.com for, that's what inspires me to persevere in times when not everything goes smoothly.
Many hairstyles and the first documentary later, it was time for the kinky hair workshop. This gave me the opportunity to explain my products in detail, how to use them, and to answer visitors' questions. While doing so, I also untied my own hair to give people an idea of how easily you can create hairstyles. What I always enjoy about workshops is the interaction. Not only do I learn firsthand what problems people are facing, but even more, I get the opportunity to offer solutions.
After this session, it was soon time for the last documentary on the program. Three inspiring ladies were willing to participate in a panel with the aim of discussing the main film "In Our Heads." Rachel Ritfeld, a former top model with curly hair who wanted to share her experience with relaxers, had to cancel because her adorable daughter suddenly fell ill. You may already be familiar with the other two ladies, Ones'y Muller and Rosita Leeflang.
Ones’y Muller has been featured on kroeshaar.com before as one of the first attendees at the launch of my first book in Amsterdam. Rosita Leeflang is very well-known in Suriname. Besides being the only newscaster with kinky hair, she also owns a successful company, Roseternal Media, which organizes music projects and events annually.
Like the rest of the program, this segment went "smoothly." After One'sy and Rosita answered the initial questions, the discussion spontaneously broke out. As a moderator, I didn't have to do much.
The only drawback of my quick decision, and I hope this will be forgiven, was that there wasn't enough time to publicize the festival. I received quite a few reactions from people who said they would have loved to be there but didn't know about it. In their eyes, it must have seemed like a private gathering, but of course it wasn't. Of course, I hope to make up for it with the next festival, but for now, I advise anyone interested to become a member of kroeshaar.com. That is truly the easiest way to stay informed. I would love to welcome you to the next Sabi Wiri, which will be announced well in advance.
Lastly, I can happily report that my dad was back home, safe and sound, even before my departure. He's doing well with his new hip. We just spoke. Mission accomplished.
For those looking forward to the portraits that were taken, please be patient. They're coming soon. Keep enjoying.