Reflecting on ‘Lands in the Right Hands’

18 September 2024

This September, to mark our 35th anniversary, Rainforest Foundation UK had the immense pleasure of hosting ‘Lands in the Right Hands,’ an immersive rainforest event that brought the magic of the Congo Basin to the heart of London. As we reflect on the evening, we are filled with gratitude for the great turnout and enthusiastic engagement of our guests.

A Night to Remember

The event was attended by a crowd of supporters, old and new, all united by a shared passion for rainforest conservation and Indigenous rights. The atmosphere was truly electric, with attendees eager to immerse themselves in the powerful blend of art, storytelling and advocacy.

Captivating Performances

Kerry Lemon, our incredible artist partner, brought her creative vision to life, transforming the space into a sanctuary that echoed the beauty and fragility of the rainforest. Kerry portrayed this by using shadows deliberately cast from her intricate sculptures to create captivating rainforest visuals, while simultaneously employing foley sound artistry to bring the rainforest to life with realistic sound effects. Her immersive sculptures - which exactly replicated Congolese plants - provided a poignant reminder that the rainforest is not just an ecosystem; it is a home, a source of life, medicine and a vital part of our global heritage.

One of the evening’s highlights was the breathtaking performance by Rogue Play, an award-winning international aerial theatre company, who used acrobatics and visual storytelling to connect our audience with the pressing realities faced by the Congo Basin. The symbolism of bamboo paper birds flying out from the felled tree resonated deeply, offering a visual representation of hope and renewal.

Not only this, but we were lucky enough to secure London’s number one Congolese soukous band, Kasai Masai. This all-star line-up is one of the most experienced and hardest-working African bands in the UK.

Copy of Lands in the Right Hands
Impactful Talks and Voices from the Field

The evening featured compelling talks from Professor Julia Fa, a renowned anthropologist, and our very own Joe Eisen, who both emphasised the crucial role of Indigenous stewardship in preserving the rainforest. They spoke passionately about how Indigenous communities have been the true guardians of these lands for centuries, using their deep knowledge and sustainable practices to protect and nurture the forest. Their insights underscored the importance of empowering these communities as key partners in the fight against deforestation.

Adding a deeply personal touch, we showcased a moving film filled with testimonials from the field. These direct voices from the communities gave guests a rare glimpse into the daily lives of those who call the rainforest home. Their stories were a powerful reminder of the human element of conserving forests, highlighting the resilience, wisdom and determination of those on the frontlines of protecting these precious ecosystems.

Engaged and Inspired

Throughout the evening, we were delighted to witness conversations sparking new ideas, commitments and potential collaboration with Rainforest Foundation UK. Guests took the time to engage in a tactile way with both Kerry’s sculptures and Rogue Play’s tree prop - the interaction with these symbolic pieces demonstrated the power of art to foster a deeper connection to global issues.

The event highlighted[CC1]  the urgency of collaborative effort in the face of growing threats to the Congo Basin. As we brought together the worlds of art, science and environmental protection, we were reminded of the immense impact we can achieve when we unite for a common cause. The message of the evening was clear: by working together, we can ensure that the rainforest lands stay in the rightful hands of Indigenous and other local communities who have stewarded them for generations.

Looking Ahead

The success of ‘Lands in the Right Hands’ has left us more motivated than ever to continue our mission. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who attended, participated and contributed to this special event. Your support not only helps raise awareness but also fuels tangible action to protect the Congo Basin and its communities.

If you were inspired by the event and wish to continue supporting our work, we invite you to join our movement and make a donation. Together, we can make a lasting impact and safeguard these precious ecosystems for future generations. 95% of our funding goes directly towards and projects and campaigns with grassroots organisations on the frontlines of deforestation.

Thank you for being part of this journey with us. Stay tuned for more updates on our ongoing efforts to protect the rainforests and empower the guardians of these lands.

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