Wawata Topu: Timor’s Fearless Women Divers | SLICE | FULL DOCUMENTARY

On the northern coast of Timor, in the small village of Adara on Atauro Island, a group of extraordinary women has transformed their community’s relationship with the ocean. Known as the Wawata Topu, or "fish women," these divers have turned the sea into a source of survival and empowerment.

For generations, the people of this mountainous island lived far above the coastline, relying on farming and livestock. But as the once-fertile land became arid, a handful of women from Adara decided to dive into the unknown—literally. Taking to the vibrant waters of the lagoon, they began hunting fish with harpoons, challenging traditional roles and creating a new way of life.

Angelita and Sarah, like many of the Wawata Topu, learned to dive before they could even speak. Capable of holding their breath for over two minutes, they venture into the colorful underwater world to provide for their families. Their strength and skill are a testament to the knowledge passed down from generation to generation, inspiring the next wave of young girls in the village.

This tradition is more than survival—it’s a ritual of resilience, unity, and independence. Together, the Wawata Topu have forged a unique bond with the sea, reshaping the future of their community and proving that strength knows no boundaries.


Documentary: People of the Sea – Episode 16 Timor (2017)
Directed by: Thibault Férié
Production : Découpages & Arte France

We fully own the rights to the use of the published content.
Any illegal reproduction of this content will result in immediate legal action.

SLICE wants to fill up your curiosity!
Accessible to anyone from anywhere at any time, this channel is your weekly dose of short docs about curious facts, discoveries, astounding info, unusual stories, weird, fun and instructive. Be smart, have a slice!

Subscribe now ►►►    / @slicedocumentary  

Become a fan !    / @slicedocumentary  

Follow us 👇
In French:    / slicefr  
Facebook:   / slicedocs  
Instagram:   / slicedocs  

#documentary #slice #fulldocumentary #freedocumentary