“When you live by Spirit, there will always be a way made out for you,” says filmmaker Dalian Adofo, co-producer of the documentary Ancestral Voices, a film that combats misconceptions about African spirituality.
I’m interviewing Dalian by phone, and he’s telling me about his experiences working on Ancestral Voices 2, the sequel to his first film.
Dalian and Verona
It was a journey that took him to Brazil, the U.S., Haiti and South Africa…
Yet, despite the language barrier and other cultural and logistical challenges, things fell into place: the right guides stepped forward to assist in miraculous ways, and he was granted access to interview legendary healers and elders.
I love talking to Dalian, and his wife (and co-producer) Verona, because I know firsthand how challenging it can be to work on a film with very limited resources.
“The biggest lesson has been perseverance,” says Verona. “Filmmaking may look like fun, but the reality is much hard work goes into it. Trying to keep motivated with family commitments and financial challenges has been a major learning curve and a test of my own determination and commitment,” adds Verona.
Ancestral Voices 2 isn’t finished yet, but you can support their work by ordering Rituals For Living today and by spreading the word. Your support can help them go a long way.
Rituals For Living is a vignette about African rituals taken from Ancestral Voices 2. The proceeds from Rituals For Living will help them complete Ancestral Voices 2.
Here’s the link to order it once again: Rituals For Living
During a visit to London several years ago, I was lucky enough to meet and have dinner with this dynamic couple. At the time, Ajani, their first son was 3 years-old. Now, Nshira, their second son is here.
Dalian is originally from Accra, Ghana, and Verona is of Jamaican ancestry but was born in the UK.
“Our stories were not being told,” Dalian tells me. That’s what got them started on their filmmaking journey. “Our stories tend to get disregarded for the most part or our stories are intentionally misrepresented. Our stories deserve to be told, and it’s essential to get a proper understanding.”
What do they want viewers of Ancestral Voices 2 to understand?
African rituals are not as portrayed in Hollywood and can be life-affirming and self-sustaining.
The role that nature plays in African spirituality and in our lives.
African spiritual traditions are not monolithic but are inspired by a common source.
Their mission is not only to educate but to empower viewers by sharing simple rituals one can do at home. “You are your own solution,” Dalian says.
I’m a fan. Who’s ready for more empowerment?
To me, once you no longer trust your Spirit all is lost. Or, if you’re led to believe that you have no connection to the divine, all is lost.
We’ve got to get back to the basics…
I would love to hear what you think so feel free to send me an email, and I’ll get back to you with a response. In the meantime, you can learn more about Dalian and Verona by following them on Ancestral Voices Facebook Page:
You can also visit them their website at this link: Ancestral Voices
Until next time, may the ancestors bless you from the north, the south, the east and the west.
Blessings,
James Weeks
Producer, Across The King’s River
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