THE NARRATIVE
The Process
RELEASING JULY 24TH, 2026 The project began with the making of a boat. From carving wood to preparing the sail, each stage revealed a slower, more tactile way of working, shaped by skill, patience, and knowledge passed between generations. The camera followed the process closely, paying attention to hands, tools, textures, conversations, and the quiet rhythm of the build.
BEYOND THE FRAME
The Narrative
At the heart of the story is the Makongeni Beekeepers, a community group whose work supports both livelihoods and environmental care. The Ngalawa is not only a boat, but a way to help create ongoing support for the group, connecting traditional fishing heritage with the beekeepers’ efforts to protect mangroves, produce honey, and strengthen their community.
THE VISION
Beyond the Frame
Punga Upepo became more than a record of one boat being built. It is a visual story about craft, collaboration, and the ripple effect of community-led work, showing how cultural preservation, environmental stewardship, and local livelihoods can be deeply connected.
WHAT ELSE ?
