07:00, 05 March 2025
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
In this cinematic piece created by Void Studios Architecture + Research Limited, a research-driven architectural practice focused on incorporating Indigenous wisdom into the field of architecture, with a commitment to preserving cultural and ecological diversity.
In their film titled Sapara Nation: Guardians of the Sacred Rainforest a rare insight into the lives of the Sapara Nation in the Ecuadorian Amazon, the protectors of one of the planet's most vital ecosystems. Narrated by Manari Ushigua, the Sapara’s spiritual and political leader, the documentary delves into the spirituality, language, and medicinal practices of the Sapara people, showcasing a way of life that is in harmony with nature.
The film highlights the Sapara language, a UNESCO-recognised cultural treasure, which is at risk of extinction, with only three fluent speakers remaining. Facing threats from climate change, oil drilling, and gold mining, the Sapara's culture, language, and ecological knowledge are under serious threat. The film serves as both a tribute to the Sapara's resilience and a compelling call to action to safeguard their land and legacy, as well as the future of our planet.
Ahead of the Smiley Charity Film Awards, we caught up with Roberta Vasnic, Co-Founder of Void Studios, to learn more about their film as a finalist in the Corporate Cause category. This category of films is all about showcasing the ways businesses are making a positive impact to help create real change.
We decided to get involved in this cause because it aligns with our business values. Our efforts aim to create a positive system change, promote inclusivity, and leave a lasting legacy for future generations. For us, the preservation of the Sapara culture is not just about safeguarding a single community—it is about protecting a worldview that expresses adaptability, resilience, and deep ecological wisdom.
However, the Saparas, guardians of a vital Amazon ecosystem, face threats from illegal mining, deforestation, and climate change. This threatens their territory and cultural heritage.
For instance, the Sapara language, an emphatic language, carrying centuries of traditions, medicinal knowledge, and practices rooted in symbiosis with nature, is on the brink of extinction. Its demise means losing an irreplaceable worldview that shares knowledge of how to work with nature as a collaborator. Therefore, supporting indigenous communities amplifies their voices and initiatives in protecting the Earth’s biosphere, and our legacy for future generations.
By engaging in charity work, businesses and organisations align with their core values. This reflects a sense of purpose, and social and environmental responsibility, which strengthens their identity and builds public trust.
Ultimately, it attracts talent, opportunities and partnerships aligned with their mission, which maintains the business model alive, boosts staff wellbeing and morale, and creates positive system changes that benefit both businesses and communities.
Businesses and organisations can best support the causes they are involved with by prioritising long-term and meaningful partnerships with communities. This can be achieved by providing direct funding or fundraising opportunities, ensuring that the voices of the community lead decision-making processes, and amplifying their outreach by offering platforms for sharing their stories to a wider audience.
You can watch Void Studios’s entry into the Smiley Charity Film Awards below or on the CFA website.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
The Rainforest Foundation UK. This charity works to protect rainforests and the rights of Indigenous people in Central and South America, addressing both environmental and social issues. Find out more.
The Indigenous Environmental Network. This network advocates for environmental justice, Indigenous rights, and climate change action, particularly for communities affected by fossil fuel extraction and environmental degradation. Learn more here.
One Earth. A charity dedicated to supporting the conservation of ecosystems and fighting climate change through Indigenous-led conservation efforts. Support them here.
