The say to travel is a luxury one can afford and traveling around Indonesia is a whole different experience like no other. As we reflect back to the journey of opening Canaan there is always that one adventure that took us back in time. A beautiful time.
Tana Toraja, the south of Sulawesi, a land with ancient beliefs or as the locals say Aluk To Dolo that means “Ways of the Ancestors” is a mountainous region surround by traditional houses with intricate carvings. We were greeted by the warm welcome of locals and weavers around the island, mostly women with weaving skills that are ingrained in their memory passed from generations.
We watched the sunrise from 1500m above ground up in the mountains where the clouds entered our home, enjoyed many discussion on how best to eat a durian and feasted on traditional Toraja cuisine prepared by Chef Antoine Audran. During our encounters we met Ibu Dinny Yusuf, a pioneer who founded Torajamelo, a foundation focused on empowering women through weaving creating a better work-life balance to overcome poverty. We are reminded once again that education is key to Indonesia, the lack of education for the young generation is a problematic issue in many rural parts of Indonesia and only education we can empower young women and men to believe in themselves and elevate their confidence. Once again we are humbled by this experience and we hope that we can visit Tana Toraja again soon.
