The Xingu River basin, in the heart of Brazil, is larger than Great Britain. It plays a vital role in regulating the global climate, storing carbon and protecting an incredibly rich biodiversity. Its indigenous inhabitants protect it for the benefit of mankind. Few outsiders are permitted access, but Sue and Patrick Cunningham were invited by the 17 ethnic groups to travel the river’s 2,500-km length, visiting 48 villages. The Original Brazilians they encountered taught them to experience the natural environment as both a spiritual and a physical entity. This led to an enduring partnership and a mutual determination to protect the Spirit of the Xingu, to defend it against threats to its integrity, mostly illegal: land grabbers, gold miners, loggers, and neighbouring agribusiness farms which set fire to the indigenous reserves and pour toxic agrochemicals into the river. Governance is practically non-existent in the Xingu, and local politicians are corrupt. But the indigenous communities are determined to keep the forest intact and their cultures vibrant.

“Our hosts on the Xingu River were generous; they fed us, and they nourished our souls. We listened and shared dreams and hopes, battles and friendships that last a lifetime. The Indigenous people of the Xingu asked us to tell their story around the world – that is why we are coming to Stamford,” said Sue.