With WOMADelaide 2022 coming up fast, it made me reflect on previous festivals.
Might it be that – in simplistic terms – there are two types of people: those who use their talents to enrich themselves, and those who use their special skills to enrich the lives of others? My experience in media leads me to think so.
I’ve been very fortunate to interview some special people over recent years, people who have dedicated their lives to ensuring they contribute to safeguarding our planet and improving social equity, and have been guests at WOMADelaide as part of the superb Planet Talks series. Here are some of the best.
- Spending time with the late Polly Higgins was unforgettably inspiring. She realised the earth needed a good lawyer and took on that role, advocating relentlessly for an international law on Ecocide. Since her untimely death from cancer, the campaign continues to gather strength.
- The points Sir Tim Smit made were diverse and fascinating. Tim Smit – a founder of the exceptional Eden Project – continues to play a leading role in a swathe of remarkable projects, as well as hosting key events such as Half Earth Day conversations.
- Globally admired scholar, environmental activist and food sovereignty advocate from India – Vandana Shiva – generously shared the backstory to her mission and motivation.
- Musicians appearing at WOMADelaide have also been a source of inspiration, both on stage and in conversation. Interviews with Nano Stern and Fatoumata Diawara are memorable as they reflect on the thirst for social justice and the empowerment of women.
WOMADelaide 2022
It’s no wonder I’m looking forward to the gates opening at WOMADelaide 2022 on 11th March. Even the 2021 cut-down festival was a triumph. So having it back to the full vibrancy of the complete 7-stage music and dance experience this year will again make it the best weekend of the year. The team at WOMADelaide have picked 30 must-see acts to celebrate the 30th anniversary.
The Planet Talks will inspire too. I’m particularly looking forward to the session Future Forward: Meet the ChangeMakers which will feature six passionate young activists who are advocating for a renewed relationship with the planet.
WOMADelaide 2022 – 11th-14th March – Botanic Park / Tainmuntilla – on the traditional lands of the Kaurna People of the Adelaide plains.