Ethiopia Festival of a Thousand Stars - 2006

In 2005, Maya was invited to collaborate in the artistic vision for the Ethiopian Folk Music and Dance Festival (FMD-FE) in Arba Minch. Working alongside Global Music Exchange, their shared ethos placed a strong emphasis on working hand in hand with the local community. The projects heart lay in celebrating the rich cultural diversity of the region; the vibrant cultural heritage of the Rift Valley peoples.

As a designer and maker, Maya drew upon her years of experience to help to create a welcoming and culturally resonant performance environment. This involved close work with local volunteers, skilled craftspeople, and translators, intricately weaving indigenous narratives into the design. The creation of  lanterns in schools blossomed into a joyful community endeavor, with enthusiastic participation from local schools, children and the wide community.

Beyond the visual spectacle, the project fostered a sense of shared celebration and preservation.