152. Speaking Shona & Ndebele

Speaking Tongues

Hello Language Lovers! Today, we’re thrilled to talk with Fari, a language lover and multilingual originally from Zimbabwe, joining us from Vancouver. Fari’s diverse linguistic journey has given her a unique perspective on the languages and cultures of Southern and Eastern Africa.

In this conversation, we discuss:

🇿🇼 Fari’s first language, Shona, and her journey learning other languages such as Zulu, Ndebele, Swahili, Spanish, and more.

🇿🇼 The interconnectedness of Bantu languages and how understanding one can help you understand many others.

🇿🇼 Cultural nuances and respect embedded in the Shona language, especially when addressing elders.

🇿🇼 The impact of colonialism on Zimbabwean languages and culture, including the loss of traditional dress and the adoption of English names.

🇿🇼 The vibrant Zim Dancehall music scene, its roots, and how it reflects the struggles and triumphs of Zimbabwean life.

🇿🇼 The challenges of maintaining linguistic and cultural identity in the diaspora, especially among Zimbabweans in countries like England and Australia.

🇿🇼 The traditions and practices surrounding marriage and dowries in Zimbabwean culture.

🇿🇼 Fari’s personal experiences with language and culture, and her reflections on the importance of preserving and celebrating her heritage.

Thank you to Fari for sharing your incredible linguistic journey, your culture, and your insights with us. If you enjoy this episode of Speaking Tongues, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review the Speaking Tongues Podcast on Apple Podcasts and like and subscribe on YouTube so that other language lovers like ourselves can find the show! If you’ve been a long-time listener of the show or a recent listener, you can now pledge ongoing support for the show on Buy Me a Coffee dot com or on Patreon dot com. And as you know, I wrote a book! My food ‘zine of international language and cuisine, Taste Buds Vol 1. is available now for purchase! Check social media for the sneak peek inside of the book and make sure you purchase for yourself and your friends! Links to all platforms are below!

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