Seylingo, National Arts and Culture Fund launch second edition Moutya T-Shirt

The vibrant culture of Seychelles is once again being celebrated through the launch of the second edition Moutya themed T-shirt by Seylingo, a local company founded by young and talented entrepreneur Ronny Julius.

This exciting project, supported by the Seychelles National Arts and Culture Fund, within the Seychelles National Institute for Culture, Heritage and the Arts (Snicha), aims to promote the unique aspects of our Creole heritage while fostering the growth of creative industries.

Ronny Julius, the innovative mind behind Seylingo, has made a name for himself by designing T-shirts that showcase local heritage and culture. Recognising his potential and dedication, the Seychelles National Arts and Culture Fund approached him to collaborate on this special project, allowing him to play his part in promoting ‘Moutya’ – a traditional dance form deeply rooted in the Seychellois culture.

In creating the new T-shirt, Ronny was provided with pictures of Moutya drummers and dancers, which he skillfully incorporated as motifs printed all over the fabric. The latest designs also feature Moutya drums adorned with iconic words and expressions from Moutya songs, capturing the essence of the Moutya rhythm. The result is a stunning design that encapsulates the spirit of Moutya, inviting people not just to wear a piece of clothing, but to live the essence of this cultural expression.

The first edition of the Moutya-themed t-shirt was launched in 2021, receiving an enthusiastic response from both locals and tourists. This second edition promises to be even more captivating.

The new round-neck T-shirts are priced at R260, while the polo T-shirts are available for R350. These unique items will be on sale starting Tuesday August 6, 2024, at the National Museum of History’s gift shop and online at the Seychelles Cultural Encounters platform, www.seychellesculturalencounters.com

Supporting business initiatives like Seylingo is vital for several reasons. By using cultural assets, Ronny Julius has created a unique product that not only celebrates our heritage but also contributes to the local economy. This approach ties into the broader concept of cultural tourism, where visitors seek authentic experiences that connect them to the local way of life. The Moutya-themed T-shirt is more than just apparel; it is a symbol of our rich cultural heritage and a tangible way for people to engage with the traditions of Seychelles.

Moreover, promoting Moutya through such creative endeavours helps to safeguard this dance form, which has been inscribed on United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation’s (Unesco) representative list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This global recognition highlights the importance of Moutya as a treasure that must be preserved for future generations. By wearing and celebrating Moutya, we contribute to its ongoing legacy and ensure that its rhythms and stories continue to be heard around the world.

Join us in celebrating the launch of the second edition Moutya-themed T-shirt by Seylingo. Embrace the opportunity to wear a piece of Seychelles’ vibrant culture and support the creative industries that keep our heritage alive. Visit the National Museum of History’s gift shop or go online to www.seychellesculturalencounters.com to get your t-shirt. Let’s live Moutya, wear Moutya, and keep our cultural heritage thriving.