Abdo Habbani of Authentikos
Over a cup of tea, we chatted with Abdo Habbani, a cultural storyteller and creator of community gathering places through both his business, Authentikos, and through his informal volunteer work of connecting people across divisions of all kinds:
For someone like myself who grew up with oral cultures, community is recognizing people for who they are. It’s that place where people meet and do great things with each other. That brings in recognition of Indigenous peoples, and epistemological diversity.
Let’s learn about each other first. How can we first recognize our differences, and from there, collaborate? It’s sharing stories, and sitting with someone and learning about them.
I want to earn a living from my business and put the ethics of engagement first. Relationships give me energy - knowing that there are folks doing great work within my local community.
The Sudanese community, Action 13, CPL (the Community Permaculture Lab), Green Block Growing, my work with Klyde Broox - a lot of these folks are elder figures, and they care deeply about diversity even though they might not express it that way. Klyde is a keeper of his traditions and he brings that to this community. Dan Coleman brings his commitment to reconciliation. The Green Block brings the principle of ‘earth care.’ Their approach is grounded and very communal.
In Hamilton, I can be on a trail and feel completely lost in nature, and in a minute or two be downtown. I want to see more music, art, and fun - people having breakfast together, having tea, having coffee. The little things establish relationality.
Right now, I’m wearing Ginny’s boots and Deborah’s sock, and you just gifted me with a cup of tea. For me, these are big. This gift exchange, this relational exchange - this gives me a feeling of joy. These little things, it’s the care that comes with it.
My experience filming started with a conversation with a coworker, who introduced me to a producer. I volunteered and got hands-on skills. My first ever big client, I was delivering food and listening to a podcast, and the podcast said, just ask how you can be of service. My offer of service to that client turned into a paid job.
Before I started my business, I felt a disconnection. I was doing this dance, sometimes trusting the truth, sometimes doubting myself. Then someone told me that I have integrity. They said doubts are as good as confidence. Even in truth, you might be doubtful or unclear, but truth-seeking, too. This is where seeking elders comes in. Respect for elders is part of truth-seeking. It’s part of my upbringing.
What excites me most about the future? I’m expecting to be a dad! I’m already becoming more playful.
