Suri Shieldmaiden

At sunrise, we headed out to witness a traditional Suri ceremony in Ethiopia’s Omo Valley. A sudden storm rolled in, and we found ourselves waiting for the rain to pass. Once the skies cleared, we walked into the village. The men were away tending cattle, so the women and children were the heart of the community that morning.

Amid the lively chatter and activity, a young woman caught my eye. She balanced a large gourd on her head, resembling a warrior’s helmet. Her face was decorated with intricate patterns made from clay collected from the river nearby. Large clay plates stretched her earlobes—a tradition among the Suri that signifies beauty and identity. What intrigued me most was the bright red plastic flower she held gently in her mouth. This small, modern object contrasted with her traditional attire.

There was something about her presence that reminded me of the Viking shieldmaidens—strong, dignified women who were both warriors and protectors in their communities. She stood with a quiet confidence, embodying both grace and strength. The gourd on her head and the detailed face paint added to this impression, making her seem like a guardian of her culture.

I asked if I could take her photograph, and she agreed with a slight nod. As I set up my camera, I thought about how the Suri, like many indigenous cultures, are at a crossroads between tradition and modernity. The red plastic flower seemed symbolic of that intersection—a touch of the outside world finding its way into their daily lives.

Capturing her image felt significant. It wasn’t just about the visual elements but about honoring her strength and the rich traditions she represents. Moments like this are why I travel and photograph—to connect with people and share stories that might otherwise go unseen.