Upcoming Online Public Lecture
The Lifesaving Foundation, in partnership with SETU Library, is delighted to host a free online public lecture featuring Erik Abrahamsson – Swedish anthropologist, writer, and photographer.
Date: Wednesday, April 2nd
Time: 9:15 AM (online)
To register: Email [email protected] to reserve your place and receive the webinar link.
About the Lecture:
“Waves of Being: A Phenomenological Journey with the Bajau Laut”
Join Erik Abrahamsson as he explores the fascinating world of the Bajau Laut, often called the “people of the sea.” Living in Southeast Asia, this semi-nomadic community has a deep cultural and physiological bond with the ocean.
Erik’s talk will delve into:
- The history and everyday life of the Bajau Laut
- Their unique, embodied connection to water
- The concept of “blue mind” – the meditative, calming effect of being in or near water, and how this supports both their wellbeing and drowning prevention
- The aquatic ape hypothesis, offering a thought-provoking evolutionary context
- The challenges faced by the Bajau Laut in the modern world
This immersive lecture weaves anthropology, environmental awareness, and human adaptability into a powerful narrative of resilience and connection to nature.
About the Speaker:
Erik Abrahamsson is a Swedish anthropologist with a deep interest in indigenous cultures, maritime lifestyles, and human evolution. Since 2010, he has spent extensive time living with the Bajau Laut across the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia. His work includes academic publications, photo exhibitions, and media programs focused on this unique community.
🔗 Learn more about Erik and his work at: theaquaticape.org
The Lifesaving Foundation Collection
To learn more about the lecture and the Lifesaving Foundation Collection housed in the Luke Wadding Library, visit our dedicated guide.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain insight into a remarkable culture and the powerful human-water connection that shapes it.