I AM NALA

Raissa Lei: The Warrior Spirit of Amazigh Women | Episode 30

Episode Summary

Join us as we step into the world of Raissa Lei, an extraordinary dancer and cultural preservationist redefining North African artistry. With roots in the Amazigh heritage of Morocco, Raissa shares her journey of blending traditional tribal dances with modern influences like hip-hop. She speaks passionately about reclaiming identity, challenging stereotypes, and using dance as a medium to celebrate culture and resist colonial erasure. In this episode, Raissa opens up about the challenges of preserving indigenous stories, navigating societal perceptions as a female dancer, and the beauty of staying rooted in her traditions while embracing global stages. Prepare for an inspiring conversation about heritage and art

Episode Notes

• Raissa’s upbringing between France and Morocco and how her Amazigh roots shape her dance and identity.
• The importance of storytelling and tribal meanings in North African traditional dances.
• Challenges of being a female dancer in conservative and often hyper-sexualized perceptions of dance.
• The erasure and revival of indigenous Amazigh culture through her choreography.
• Insights on motherhood, cultural transmission, and raising the next generation with strong values and identity.

_______________________________________

Connect with Raïssa Lei

Instagram raissa_lei

____________________________________________
Want to support the Nala Feminist Collective? 

Website nalafem.org 

Instagram @IamNala_podcast  

Tiktok I AM NALA Podcast

Facebook Nala Feminist Collective

X (Twitter) @Nalafem

YouTube Nala feminist Collective

Linkedin Nala Feminist Collective

Learn more about the Africa Young Women Beijing+25 Manifesto and how you can help the young women of Africa create a better life for future generations. nalafem.org/manifesto

For collaboration and sponsorships contact hello@nalafem.org 

____________________________________________

Curator & Host: Aya Chebbi

Producer: Omom Mbu-Ogar

Graphic Designer & Audio engineer.: Kenechukwu Nwachukwu

Music License Agreement signed for the Use of ‘Fire’ by Mpho featuring MiDi KwaKwa