Before one leaves

“Before one leaves” was inspired by my observations of the many Burundian women leaving for the Gulf countries in search of economic opportunities. These migrations are often told through the lens of the promises, risks, or consequences of departure. However, I was drawn to a much more subtle moment: what happens before one of them leaves.

When I met Justine and Florence, two sisters and mothers, I was moved by how their relationship was shaped by the experience of migration. Justine had already worked in a Gulf country and was about to see her sister follow the same path. Between them, I observed a sharing of knowledge, advice, encouragement, and warnings. Through learning a few words of Arabic, packing a suitcase, or everyday conversations, a concrete and essential form of sisterhood emerged.

With this project, I sought to document the often-unseen gestures that precede separation. My intention was not merely to tell a story of migration, but to show how women support one another in the face of uncertainty. "Before one leaves" explores the bonds of trust, care, and solidarity that form between two sisters as one shares with the other the experience of a departure she has already lived through.

Ester N’sapu was selected from among the applicants for "Sisterhood in Practice" online exhibition. This Artist Feature is part of Der Greif's initiative to bring female-identifying and non-binary voices to the forefront.