Here I am, Ukes Baha, a familiar name to many. My ancestral roots trace back to Shiraz, a magnificent ancient capital in Iran, where both my parents hailed from. Born in Tehran, the present capital of Iran, I was known as Sohail, a name associated with a rare star. The backdrop of political unrest and war prompted my mother's decision to migrate to New Zealand, where I continued my education through schooling and university. Subsequently, I embarked on a fortunate journey that took me across the globe, exploring all continents except Africa.
In late 2013, my youngest brother, Sirous, insisted on more travels before finalizing our fine arts photography book, a project I believed was ready for publication. Our journey took us to Europe, India, Turkey, and finally, Sirous proposed Kenya, where we could delve into the lives of the 'Masai' tribe warriors, also known as 'Morans.'
For the first time, I set foot in Africa, starting with Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, where I found myself entangled in trouble with corruption, leading me to compose my own prayers for divine intervention. Thankfully, on April 4, 2016, I returned home to New Zealand, settling back in Auckland, the city of sails.
Reflecting on my life's journey, I can only express gratitude to God.
The list of countries I've explored is extensive:
Asia: Iran (x9+ cities), India (x13+ cities), Pakistan (Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad), China (Hangzhou, Beijing, Guangzhou), Japan (Tokyo), South Korea (Seoul), Singapore, Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur), Hong Kong (airport), Qatar (airport), United Arab Emirates (airport), Turkey (Istanbul).
Europe: Holland (Amsterdam), Switzerland (Zurich), Belgium (Brussel), England (London), France (Paris), Italy (Venice).
North America: California (Los Angeles), Florida, New York (Manhattan), Mexico (Cancun).
Central America: Panama (airport), Cuba (Havana).
South America: Colombia (Bogota), Venezuela (Caracas), Brazil (Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Salvador, Fortaleza), Argentina (Buenos Aires), Uruguay (Montevideo)
Australasia: New Zealand (x8+ cities), Australia (Sydney)
Africa: Kenya (x11+ cities), Ethiopia (airport).
Each country presented unique tales and dramas, but it was in Kenya that I encountered challenges with corruption, hustlers, and immoral opportunistic individuals, akin to hyenas. Despite the hardships, I gracefully returned home, giving thanks to God for allowing me to resume my normal life.
Back in New Zealand, with some human rights and welfare system, I could start afresh without burdening others or facing the spectre of homelessness, a fate I narrowly escaped. Yet, this too is another story, a testament to the unpredictable and colourful journey that is my life.
In late 2013, my youngest brother, Sirous, insisted on more travels before finalizing our fine arts photography book, a project I believed was ready for publication. Our journey took us to Europe, India, Turkey, and finally, Sirous proposed Kenya, where we could delve into the lives of the 'Masai' tribe warriors, also known as 'Morans.'
For the first time, I set foot in Africa, starting with Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, where I found myself entangled in trouble with corruption, leading me to compose my own prayers for divine intervention. Thankfully, on April 4, 2016, I returned home to New Zealand, settling back in Auckland, the city of sails.
Reflecting on my life's journey, I can only express gratitude to God.
The list of countries I've explored is extensive:
Asia: Iran (x9+ cities), India (x13+ cities), Pakistan (Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad), China (Hangzhou, Beijing, Guangzhou), Japan (Tokyo), South Korea (Seoul), Singapore, Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur), Hong Kong (airport), Qatar (airport), United Arab Emirates (airport), Turkey (Istanbul).
Europe: Holland (Amsterdam), Switzerland (Zurich), Belgium (Brussel), England (London), France (Paris), Italy (Venice).
North America: California (Los Angeles), Florida, New York (Manhattan), Mexico (Cancun).
Central America: Panama (airport), Cuba (Havana).
South America: Colombia (Bogota), Venezuela (Caracas), Brazil (Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, Salvador, Fortaleza), Argentina (Buenos Aires), Uruguay (Montevideo)
Australasia: New Zealand (x8+ cities), Australia (Sydney)
Africa: Kenya (x11+ cities), Ethiopia (airport).
Each country presented unique tales and dramas, but it was in Kenya that I encountered challenges with corruption, hustlers, and immoral opportunistic individuals, akin to hyenas. Despite the hardships, I gracefully returned home, giving thanks to God for allowing me to resume my normal life.
Back in New Zealand, with some human rights and welfare system, I could start afresh without burdening others or facing the spectre of homelessness, a fate I narrowly escaped. Yet, this too is another story, a testament to the unpredictable and colourful journey that is my life.