The Spirit of Ubuntu

A Journey Through African Wisdom

In an era marked by divisiveness and individualism, Ubuntu emerges as a timely antidote. Ubuntu in various spheres of life, including restorative justice,  interpersonal relationships, community building, and global cooperation. This movement aims to equip individuals with the tools to integrate Ubuntu into their daily lives, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and common purpose.

Ubuntu Origin

Ubuntu-{oǒ’boǒntoō|}is an ancient African word meaning ‘humanity to others’. It is often described as reminding us that ‘I am, because you are” or ‘I am, because WE are”. In a philosophical sense it promotes the belief in a universal bond of sharing that connects all humanity”.

"Ubuntu" as a political philosophy encourages mutual support, community equity and socialization. (which should not be confused with socialism) The name also differs by country, such as in Angola (gimuntu), Botswana (muthu), Burundi (ubuntu), Cameroon (bato), Congo (bantu), Congo Democratic Republic (bomoto/bantu), Kenya (utu/munto/mondo), Malawi (umunthu), Mozambique (vumuntu), Namibia (omundu), Rwanda (ubuntu), South Africa (ubuntu/botho), Tanzania (utu/obuntu/bumuntu), Uganda (obuntu), Zambia (umunthu/ubuntu) and Zimbabwe (Ubuntu, unhu or hunhu). It is also found in other Bantu countries. The are different definitions in different regions, but they all point to one thing – “an authentic individual human being is part of a larger and more significant relational, communal, societal, environmental and spiritual world.”

In 2022, award-winning director Kudzai Tinago, renowned for his innovative storytelling and visually stunning cinematography, collaborated with Grammy-nominated reggae legend Pato Banton and Antoinette Rootsdawtah, a world-renowned keyboard player and composer known for her exceptional talent. Together, they embarked on a journey through ten countries across Africa, exploring the ancient philosophy of Ubuntu.

The purpose and destiny of this project is to present the meaning and values of Ubuntu across all regions of Africa and around the world. By creating a Video Documentary that focuses on the Social, Ethical, Moral and Universal aspects of Ubuntu and how it can be applied in practical life situations, will allow teachers and leaders the opportunity to share these valuable lessons with their respective communities and hopefully inspire the next generation to become enthusiastic activists to bring about more peace and global progress. Let’s bring the Spirit of Ubuntu to the world!

UBUNTU Women’s trailer

We’re building an UBUNTU global movement worldwide.

At the beginning of 2024, Ubuntu International submitted the completed documentary "The Spirit of Ubuntu" and the short film "The Baobab Tree Story" to the film festival circuit. To date, we have been selected for 25 film festivals and have won 12 international awards.

The Ubuntu World Tour, spearheaded by this inspirational couple, will facilitate the creation of an Ubuntu Network, a community of individuals and organizations committed to practicing and promoting Ubuntu principles. This network aims to sustain the movement’s impact beyond individual participants, ensuring that the spirit of Ubuntu continues to thrive and inspire communities worldwide.

Upgrading to Paid

All proceeds from this Substack go back into the Ubuntu Empowerment Fund.

The Ubuntu Empowerment Program was created to empower our brothers and sisters to find creative ways to take control of their destiny to become self-sufficient visionaries who can find ways to uplift themselves and their communities.

Our Mission is to provide intelligent loving service to the real needs of those who come to us for help. To assist with short-term needs while creating long-term goals. We aim to provide encouragement and teach people the skills and knowledge that will motivate them to take steps to improve their own lives and even feel empowered to improve the lives of others.

Check our next newsletter for our continual list of growing Ubuntu organizations.

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