You are the bridge to the next generation | Ndinini Kimesera Sikar
In a thought-provoking exploration of cultural preservation and community values, Ndinini Kimesera Sikar, a prominent community leader from Tanzania, poses a compelling question: “Do you know what you want to preserve for the next generation?” Drawing from her rich upbringing in a traditional Maasai village, where she was one of 38 siblings, Sikar reflects on the importance of communal living, shared responsibilities, and the oral traditions that defined her childhood. In her village, every chore was a collective effort, and storytelling was not just entertainment but a vital means of passing down knowledge and values. This communal lifestyle, steeped in tradition, has shaped her perspective on what it means to belong and thrive.
Sikar urges us to consider how we can blend the old with the new as we navigate the complexities of modern life. She emphasizes the need to identify our “must-haves” for the future, encouraging individuals and communities to reflect on what aspects of their heritage they wish to carry forward. For instance, the Maasai’s deep-rooted connection to the land and their sustainable practices serve as a model for contemporary environmental stewardship. By integrating these traditional values with modern innovations, Sikar believes we can create a more harmonious existence that honors our past while embracing the future. Her insights challenge us to think critically about our legacies and the cultural narratives we choose to uphold, ultimately fostering a sense of responsibility toward the generations to come.
Through her message, Sikar not only highlights the significance of cultural identity but also invites a broader conversation about how we can learn from traditional practices to address current global challenges. Whether it’s the importance of community support, environmental sustainability, or the art of storytelling, her reflections serve as a reminder that the wisdom of the past can inform our choices today. As we ponder our own lists of what to preserve, Sikar’s call to action resonates deeply, urging us all to take an active role in shaping a future that honors our roots while innovating for the world ahead.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7-svUM0cX78
“Do you know what you want to preserve for the next generation?” asks community leader Ndinini Kimesera Sikar. Drawing on her experience growing up in a family of 38 in a traditional Maasai village in Tanzania — where every chore was shared, every story was sung and belonging meant survival — she explores how we can blend the old with the new to build the life we want, encouraging us all to ponder our list of “must-haves” for the future.
