Lupita Nyong’o Instagram – Addis Ababa is a city rich with history and culture. As the capital of Africa’s only country NEVER to be colonized, there is an undeniable confidence to the energy of the place. Here are some of the wonderful people and places that left an impression on me: : Photo 2&3 – Shola is one of Addis’ larger open-air markets.  Lots of locally grown spices and grains can be found here. And, as I was walking through, I came across these guys playing foosball and I had to jump in – I lost miserably! : Photo 4 – Chef Yohanis Gebreyesus’ unique restaurant, Asabet features fish as part of every course of the meal – yes, including dessert! His contemporary take on traditional recipes combines his passions for both food and art. I was lucky enough to have him teach me how to make his Ethiopian-style ravioli! : Photo 5 – Dr. Solomon Getaneh is a historian and theologian. We visited Kiddus Raguel (pictured here), the oldest church in Addis Ababa, and he also taught me a lot about the ancient vegan traditions in Ethiopia. Fun fact: traditionally, Ethiopians eat vegan for 250 days of the year! : Photo 6 – Zertihun Guddisa is the manager of Selo Tella Bar. She was taught the craft of brewing the indigenous alcoholic beverage, tella, when she was 15, an art that is passed down by women in the family. Now she works at crafting commercial quantities of this Ethiopian beer, keeping the tradition alive and women employed. : Photo 7&8 – I met hip hop artist Kassmasse at Shifta Foods. Kassmasse is one of the most influential Ethiopian artists right now and it was great to chat with him over some delicious African Caribbean-inspired vegan food! : Photo 9 & 10 – Meskerem Assegued is the visionary behind Zoma Contemporary Art Centre, a living museum where she has grown indigenous plants for the people to experience the natural potential of Ethiopia. The Center celebrates ancient techniques in art, architecture and food production. I was lucky enough to visit it, and it took my breath away. These textured walls, for instance, are made of fermented mud and straw, and they can last hundreds of years. I highly recommend you check it out!