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ZIBAD – THE DAUGHTER
Zibad is 35 years old and a mother of five. She and her children came to live with her mother Zeinab in Awra Amba to find a better life. Zibad was badly abused by her husband and had to escape to save her life. She is hoping to become a community member soon. In order to be accepted, there are a list of criteria to fulfill, including being free from conflict, bad habits and intoxicants.
Zibad has an ongoing dispute with her ex-husband about their shared property, but despite years of fighting for her share nothing has yet materialised. Zibad is trying to weigh up the benefits of joining Awra Amba, which would mean giving up her property dispute. She is not part of the economic system in Awra Amba yet, where all profits are shared equally. That is why she has to work hard outside the community in order to provide for her children. In order to join, she also needs to be able to bring in a certain amount of capital. She is gentle and fragile, but is determined to provide a better life for her children. |
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ZEINAB – THE MOTHER
Zeinab, who is in her early fifties, is Zibad’s mother. She has given refuge to her daughter and her five children and together with Zeinab’s own children they share a small hut in Awra Amba.
Zeinab runs the teahouse in the village, with co-worker Zuhone, where she makes bread, tea and generally hosts anyone who comes in. The teahouse is the heart of the village where people meet, gossip and debate about every day things as well as big philosophical matters.
Zeinab used to be married to an Imam, but they divorced and she decided to move to Awra Amba. She says that she has always lived under male oppression and that she didn’t know anything about her rights before she came to Awra Amba. She says it’s because she is uneducated, but she is one of the most intelligent and strong women I’ve ever met. |
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ATO ZUMRA – THE LEADER & FOUNDER
Zumra, 63 had the idea for Awra Amba already as a small boy, when he saw the inequality that existed between his mother and father and the division religion has created in the society. He decided to leave his family and village in search of like-minded people who didn’t want to live in an unequal world. 40 years later he is the leader of a thriving, independent community that receives thousands of visitors every year, ranging from tourists to political and religious leaders.
Zumra is married to Enanney, 36 and has four children with her. Ennaney mostly works with receiving guests who come to the village, guiding them around and telling them about the unique philosophy of the community and their way of life.
Zumra is a strong and respected leader, who over the years has had to endure a lot of struggle and pain. He is very protective of his community and always chooses his words carefully. |
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