Maasai Warrior

This is Leemo Zakaya, a young Maasai warrior. The warriors are in charge of protecting livestock from predators and enemies. Since the Maasai is a cow culture, and wealth is based on the number of cows one has, being a warrior is a vital role within the community. To become a warrior, one must first be circumcised, the idea being that if one can endure the excruciating pain of circumcision without flinching, one is brave enough to risk his life to protect their herds. Part of a larger campaign of portraits of indigenous tribespeople in Tanzania.

Thanks so much to Tyler Northrup for all his friendship and support, and to Peter Jones of Tanganyika Film & Safari Outfitters  in Tanzania for all his expertise, experience and friendship. I couldn’t imagine doing this trip without them. Asante sana.