You are one of the coolest and wisest women we know in Canggu, and your life story is fascinating. Let’s start with a challenge — describe yourself in one sentence.
I’ve had more reinventions than Madonna!
Tell us more!
At 54, I just shifted my professional attention from women towards men to address the increased polarisation between genders I have been observing since the ‘Me Too’ movement. I am now helping men overcome their pressure to perform at work and in relationships, as they face a growing number of challenges. Modern men want to level up and be better partners and leaders, and they cannot do that without the support of women. I offer men the motherly and feminine energy they need to confide and feel seen and respected in all their pain because men are hurting and feeling lost.
In parallel, I’m publishing my first novel ‘The Book of Ola’. I did not know that I could write until 4 years ago! It’s inspired by my ex-partner, a Nigerian of Yoruba descent. It is a poetic bedtime story for adults seeking to love deeply and compassionately that digs into the ‘making of a man’, his origin story. It focuses on men’s unexpressed traumas and how they affect their ability to love.
Now that I am closer to the grave than the cradle, I do not want to leave the world in a worse shape than I found it when it comes to relationships, intimacy, community and connection. I am embracing my purpose: to be a bridge between genders, cultures and generations.
How do you keep sane in fast and furious Canggu?
As an artist and coach, I need a lot of time alone, surrendered by the music of nature, time to get inspired and to digest all my conversations with my clients.
I am very blessed that I live in a secluded spot and I spend most of my time at home.
My days start early with a walk on the beach. I go out when there is little traffic and prefer a longer journey through shortcuts than taking the main busy roads.
I do my food shopping on a Sunday morning when the roads are quieter. I find it really easy to organize my life on the edges of the action… which means that when I need to go out when it’s busy, I am ready for the urban chaos.
Where does Canggu lead you when you want to feel inspired?
My home: I am very proud of having created a nest that brings love and magic around me, where my friends feel welcomed and inspired.
Kafe and Jiwa Gardens are my favorite performing venues, where I get to hear other artists at All Souls Everything and Voices Unleashed. Seeing people in their genius or standing up in front of an audience for the first time, scared but brave, fills me with utter joy.
I enjoy attending Philosophy Club on Tuesdays at Awan Connections. That’s where I get to stretch my brain with people who are substantially younger than me. It helps me keep accountable to my values.
I never miss Women Who Write (led by Modern Women Bali) and Writers’ Corner (which I host for Voices Unleashed). That’s where I learn new ways to be creative, host free speaking and writing workshops, and give feedback to help others grow.
And of course, I left the best for the end: I could never survive without DiskoAfrika in my life!
When the world feels a little too busy, where do escape to hit pause and find your zen?
The beach! My favourite spot is a sunbed at O’Three. Affordable, nice staff and does not fart higher than its ass, unlike other trendy beach clubs that shan’t be named!
When it’s time for a fun night out with the ladies, where’s your favorite Canggu spot for cocktails and good vibes?
Shaggy Pig has an amazing cocktail carte and I loved their grass-root blues nights when I had more time on my hands.
I find that most places in Canggu play the kind of music I cannot shake my bottom to, and I can’t stand being surrounded by people who are obsessed with taking selfies and parading like peacocks. I am one for deep conversations and for rich music that is about more than two beats: world music, jazz, classical – something with substance.
When you need quality time with yourself, where do you dine solo in Canggu?
My top choices would be Sangsaka and Luma because they offer an original and sophisticated menu.
But honestly, I feel that my choices are limited as I cannot stand poor quality food or anything that’s not 100% natural. My stomach cannot stand ingredients that are cooked in cheap oil. I grew up only eating organic food from my parents’ garden and being an old-fashioned French woman, I cook! It is like an act of self-love for me. I buy all my supplies at the Samadi’s Organic Sunday Market.
What is your go-to breakfast spot?
My two favourite spots are Times Beach Warung and Bokashi for avocado on toast. They have transformed something boring and predictable into something delicious and beautifully presented.
And your favourite date spot?
The last time I went on a date I nearly died! You even published the story on your website before!
What one piece of advice can you share with someone new to Canggu?
For heaven’s sake, don’t ride your bike only wearing a bikini top! Bali is a religious island. We should remain mindful of the local customs and honor the culture as guests.
Where can someone who is a little shy meet new friends, especially if they don’t drink, party or do yoga?
Look for events on Nomeo. Go to SpeakUp Monday at Tropical Nomad. It’s a really cool award-winning event that takes place each Monday evening. They’ll meet interesting people.
You have such an incredible sense for unique fashion. Where do you shop in Canggu?
I don’t. I have to go all the way to Kuta to buy textiles (Alta Moda is a good start). I select natural fabrics because in this weather, anything synthetic (e.g. polyester, rayon, spandex, microfiber etc.) makes you sweat like crazy, and I’m wary of the microplastics released in my body.
As for design, I mix sexy West African and classic everlasting French style, I save on Pinterest. Then I work with my seamstress to make them happen.
I will always opt for unique: I go for style over fashion.
And we must ask, what’s your favorite French restaurant?
Little Frenchie for comfort home food.
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And so that you can feel just how awesome Carole’s poetry is, here’s a little taste. Scan the QR code or visit www.modernwomenbali.com for more.
French Women
Did you not know
that French women are just perfect?
Come on… listen to me!
I do the zezeze, the rerere, the oulala
The: “Oh Cherie, take me on the table
I am hote, hote, hote
Kiss me, eat me,
please squeeze my juicy apricots”,
Who can resist that?
French women are the epitome
of perfection,
the priestesses of captivation,
the muses of seduction
gifted to earth as its divine salvation.
Our bodies were baked
to melt like honey,
wet, juicy and runny,
and our minds,
humm our minds…
they are sassy, eager to bite...
…
I fart when I dance.
I fart when I stand.
I fart when I make love,
to others… and myself
The UK has trans-formed
ME
into an unstoppable Kalashnikov
that fires up relentlessly.
I fart and I expand
the field
of my aromatic consciousness.
Farting has become
my most intense
shadow work.
