The gaucho is more than just a figure from South American folklore; it is a symbol of resilience, independence, and tradition. Rooted in the vast plains of the Pampa, which stretch across southern Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay, the gaucho has long been a master of cattle herding, horseback riding, and the art of the churrasco—a barbecue that is as much about culture as it is about food.
In the rural outskirts of Venâncio Aires, Brazil, Miguel Clestes Saldanha and his family have spent over three decades cultivating yerba mate. From planting and harvesting to processing the leaves, the Saldanha family’s dedication to their craft is evident in every step. Despite the challenges of economic pressures, their tradition of producing high-quality mate remains a central part of their lives, with each process—from drying to grinding—carried out with care and pride.
In Beijing, a group of passionate young performers is reviving the ancient art of Peking Opera. Led by Liu Feng, a self-taught artist, and supported by social entrepreneur Ian Charles Stuart, the Beijing Youth Peking Opera Troupe has spent years perfecting their craft. Despite the challenges of being self-taught and working outside of traditional institutions, their performances are garnering attention and respect, helping to ensure that this cultural treasure remains alive for future generations.
The asado en el cuero, or barbecue on the leather, is a traditional South American method of cooking meat that dates back to the gauchos. José Silveira, one of the few who still practices this rare art, cooks a whole cow on its own skin, preserving its juices for a tender, unique flavor. This ancient method, rooted in the history of the Pampa, continues to thrive, though it’s becoming a dying tradition due to modern challenges.
Mengxing, a young artist born with brittle-bone disease, overcame significant physical challenges with the help of a few key supporters who provided her with the tools and opportunities to pursue her passion for art. Self-taught, her bold and fresh approach to painting has gained recognition, and with the support of mentors and the art community, she is now pursuing her dream of studying art professionally. Despite her condition, Mengxing’s resilience and determination continue to inspire those around her.
Baisha: Life in an ancient Chinese town
On the foothills of the Himalayas there is this tiny Chinese village called Baisha. It is one of the oldest in the region, having its roots in the Tang Dynasty (618 - 907 AD) and home to the Naxi people. With its cobblestone streets, fresh air, and ancient constructions, you can almost feel as a fly on the wall watching this traditional Chinese town.
Giant Wild Goose Pagoda 大雁塔
Outside the city walls of Xi'an, next to the Shaanxi History Museum, is the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda. This building was originally built in 652 with five stories to house treasures gathered by the traveler Xuanzang. Fifty years later the whole thing, made of rammed earth, collapsed. By then, empress Wu Zetian had the pagoda rebuilt making it five stories taller. It remained like that for 800 years until a powerful earthquake knocked down three floors leaving it the way it is now. Let's do the math: 5+5-3=7. Or you can just count from the photo.
Banjo Joe lives life at his own pace, embracing a rhythm of freedom and simplicity that contrasts with the fast-moving world around him. A musician with The Whistle Pigs, Joe spends his days off the grid, playing banjo, enjoying the quiet of nature, and hanging out with close friends. His band’s hit song, “Long Term Plan,” reflects his unhurried journey, where he finds meaning in the small moments—like a late-night jam session or a quiet morning spent fixing coffee. “I’m just rambling through, figuring it out as I go, but I’ve got a plan. It’s a long term plan,” says Joe, capturing the essence of his laid-back yet purposeful lifestyle.