A Conversation with Bekuwa Kayapo: Friendship, Solidarity & Shared Learning

Last month, we had the privilege of hosting our first dialogue between Josiah and Sam, co-founders of Solidarity Trade, and Bekuwa Kayapó. What began as a simple introduction quickly unfolded into something far more meaningful: a rich tapestry of shared learning, laughter, personal stories, and mutual respect.

The conversation felt like a significant step in realising our vision for Solidarity Trade: it embodied the very spirit of what we are striving to build – a network grounded in deep relationships, not transactions; in listening, not assumptions; in co-creation, not extraction. For us, it was a reminder that true solidarity begins with friendship – and that friendship, in turn, becomes the foundation for lasting, ethical trade.

Over the course of our time together, we explored a range of powerful themes and lived experiences, including:

• Bekuwa’s journey navigating between the Kayapó way of life and the demands of the ‘white man’s world’
• The Brazil nut harvest – its seasonal rhythms, its economic and cultural significance, and the challenges faced by harvesters
• The ancestral story of how the Brazil nut tree became the tallest tree in the forest
• Traditional uses of Brazil nuts, both nutritional and medicinal, passed down through generations
• How Solidarity Trade was born and its importance to Josiah and Sam
• The power of friendship and relationship in trade
• And finally, the Brazil nut itself – as a symbol of hope, resilience, and solidarity

As someone born and raised in one of the Kayapó’s more protected villages, Bekuwa’s lived experience has been shaped by guardianship rather than constant defence. This unique perspective opened a window into the other facets of the Kayapó’s life, while also reminding us the importance of bringing attention to the diversity within Kayapó life. Through his lens, we saw how cultural protection is not just an act of survival – it is a celebration of identity, continuity, and reverence for the natural world. 

It was a true honour to sit in dialogue with Bekuwa – to listen, to learn, and to celebrate the humanity we all share. As he reflected, the experience was mutual. What emerged was not just a deeper understanding of the Brazil nut or the Kayapó way of life, but a renewed sense of purpose in how we move forward: together. 

So today, on Earth Day, we invite you to be part of this unfolding journey. We’re grateful to Bekuwa. We’re grateful to the Kayapó and all the Indigenous communities at the frontlines of protecting biodiversity. And we’re grateful to you – for walking this path of solidarity with us.

Also in Hodmeblog