The Garifuna culture is one of the most vibrant in Belize. It is characterized by a deep appreciation for music and dance and a strong commitment to preserving its heritage. The Garinagu celebrate their authenticity daily, sharing rhythms from their drums, showcasing the movements of Jankunu, and offering delicious traditional cuisine, all while proudly presenting their rich heritage to the world.
Emily Ramirez, a young advocate for Garifuna artistry, was born and raised in Peini, Punta Gorda. As a dedicated community member, she serves as a teacher and the principal at St. Joseph Anglican Preschool. She is passionate about reading, drawing, sewing, gardening, and music.
Through a family-run gift shop, Emily aims to preserve and promote her culture in an ever-changing society. “In 2016, my family and I recognized the need to represent Garifuna culture in Punta Gorda’s tourism sector, so we founded the town’s first Garifuna gift shop, The Isieni Project Gift Shop, located on Victoria Street,” she explains. The shop showcases various Garifuna-themed gift items, focusing on their original handmade Isieni Dolls, which have been cherished since their debut in 2014.
According to Emily, the Isieni Project Gift Shop is a labor of love, as the name suggests. “Isieni” means “love” in Garifuna, reflecting their dedication to celebrating Garifuna culture. Among its offerings, the shop proudly features its signature product: the original Isieni Doll. These beautifully crafted dolls represent the brown skin tones of the Garifuna people and are dressed in vibrant replicas of traditional attire. In addition to the Isieni Dolls, they provide Garifuna clothing in various sizes, allowing everyone to embrace and showcase their rich heritage.
To Emily, the Isieni Dolls are more than just dolls. They are a way to spread love and celebrate the beauty of Garifuna culture around the world. Inspired by characters from her book, “Garawoun: Magic Drums,” which she wrote in 2013 and published in 2016, These dolls serve as a vibrant connection to our heritage. “We believe that by recognizing the beauty of Garifuna children depicted in art, literature, and the Isieni Dolls, our children can experience positive growth and a deeper appreciation for their culture,” says Emily. The Isieni Dolls, with their cultural significance and educational value, are a unique way to learn about and celebrate the Garifuna culture.
The Isieni Project Gift Shop warmly invites everyone, regardless of age or background, to celebrate and embrace Garifuna culture. Whether through the simple act of cherishing a doll, enjoying the rhythmic beat of a drum, or appreciating the vibrant beauty of traditional attire, there’s something for everyone here. “Our Isieni Dolls and Garifuna clothing offer children and adults alike a meaningful introduction to the richness of our heritage. We are thrilled to continue sharing our unique Isieni Dolls and spreading the love for Garifuna culture throughout Belize and beyond.”
To learn more about Emily, the Isieni Project Gift Shop, and the Isieni Dolls, visit their Facebook page, www.facebook.com/TheIsieniProject, or contact her via WhatsApp at +501-631-6330. Better yet, plan a visit to the Isieni Project Gift Shop in Punta Gorda to experience the vibrant Garifuna culture firsthand.
