Life experiences, shared moments, exchanges, and affection. This is how the final day of the gathering with Kalunga youth at Casa Tainã began. Throughout the day, several conversation circles were held. The first circle was dedicated to sharing personal experiences from the journey.
Gradually, each participant shared their feelings, how they received the information, and how they were processing it. The discussion was opened by Sidene Torres, a Kalunga resident from Cavalcante who holds a degree in Rural Education from the University of Brasília. Sidene began by highlighting the importance of having spaces that strengthen us as individuals. "Getting to know Tainã gave me many ideas for Casa Kalunga. Here, besides being a place for community life, it's also a research hub," she said.
Another key point raised in the circle was the strengthening of people's struggles and the unity among traditional communities—Quilombolas, Indigenous peoples, and riverside dwellers. As Kalunga member Laísa Santos affirmed: "I believe what brought me here is the people. I'm here for the struggle."
More testimonies followed, bringing forth feelings of discovery, restlessness, discomfort, belonging, and comfort. As Angel Luís shared: "The conversation circle is an advanced technology. It allows us to see each other, think, and speak. The circle is a space for exchanging comfort and safety among people."
In the afternoon, some next steps were outlined, including the agenda and future actions of the Mocambos Network in collaboration with Kalunga territory:
Watch the Kalunga testimonies sharing insights about the Mocambos Network and the Kalunga Communication Network. Recorded during the late March gathering at Casa de Cultura Tainã.
This meeting was part of the ongoing training promoted by the Kalunga Nucleus, Mercado Sul Nucleus, and Tainã Nucleus. In the days prior, the group participated in a community GSM telephony event organized with the Mexican network Rhizomatica.