Cuban actress, model, and influencer Camila Arteche welcomed 2024 with offerings of flowers to Yemayá, the sea goddess in the Yoruba religion, from the shores of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The artist shared images of this special moment on her social media, showcasing her connection to Afro-Cuban traditions and her gratitude to the ocean in a deeply spiritual act.
"Flowers to her Yemanya," Camila wrote in one of her posts, accompanied by photographs in which she is seen dressed in white, a tradition associated with this religious practice.
The year 2024 was significant for Arteche, who solidified her career as a content creator and international public figure. Based in Miami, the Cuban has found in spirituality both a refuge and a source of inspiration for her personal and professional projects.
Moreover, she is one of the artists from the island who frequently emphasizes the importance of preserving Afro-Cuban traditions, even while living outside the island.
Choosing Rio de Janeiro for this year's end was no coincidence. Brazil, like Cuba, has a rich Afro-Cuban and Afro-Brazilian religious tradition, in which Yemayá (known in Portuguese as Iemanjá) is widely revered.
At this time of year, thousands of people flock to the Brazilian beaches to pay homage by offering flowers, perfumes, and food, hoping to receive blessings for the year ahead.
Without a doubt, Arteche recalled how beliefs and customs transcend borders and become a bridge between cultures. The actress demonstrates, once again, how art, spirituality, and culture can intertwine to inspire a diverse audience that admires her for her authenticity and commitment to her roots.
Frequently Asked Questions about Camila Arteche, Yemayá, and Cuban Santería
Who is Yemayá and what does she represent in Santería?
Yemayá is one of the most important orishas in Cuban santería, representing the sea, motherhood, and protection. She is regarded as the mother of all orishas in the Yoruba tradition, embodying a maternal and protective figure revered for her strength and wisdom.
Why does Camila Arteche make offerings to Yemayá from Brazil?
Camila Arteche made offerings to Yemayá from Brazil to honor her Afro-Cuban roots and connect with the spirituality she has discovered throughout her career. Like Cuba, Brazil has a rich tradition of worshiping Yemayá, and this act was a way to express gratitude and seek blessings for the new year.
What does it mean that the children of Yemayá are considered unforgettable?
In Santería, it is believed that the children of Yemayá have a special connection with this deity, which endows them with unique personality traits. They are described as strong, protective, and generous individuals, making them unforgettable in matters of the heart.
How has Camila Arteche influenced the preservation of Afro-Cuban traditions?
Camila Arteche has emphasized the importance of preserving Afro-Cuban traditions through her actions and public presence. As an international public figure, she has utilized her platforms to promote respect for and the continuity of these cultural practices, even from outside Cuba.
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