Mighty Matriarch

As the sun dipped below the horizon in Ethiopia’s Arbore village, evening settled in. It was the end of a long day, the air filled with the scent of burning fires, and the village was winding down to a peaceful rhythm.

In the distance, a woman walking home caught my eye. She was carrying her young son in one arm and a heavy load in the other—wood for the fire, sorghum for food, and a machete symbolizing her day’s hard work. Despite the weight she carried, she held her son tenderly, moving with a grace that left me in awe.

Each step she took was a balance of strength and love. It struck me that she wasn’t just transporting supplies; she was supporting her family’s well-being with every stride. Even with the burden on her back, her genuine smile and the love shining in her eyes spoke volumes about her resilience and dedication.

Women in Arbore are the heart of their households, managing countless tasks and caring for their children. This woman embodied that strength effortlessly, showing that even after a day filled with labor, there’s always room for love and tenderness.

This photo isn’t just an image to me—it’s a tribute to the incredible strength, resilience, and love that women everywhere embody. It’s a reminder that no matter where we come from, at our core, we’re all striving to live, love, and support our families the best we can.