Renee

Since she was sixteen she has stood at the very front of a three-hundred-person drum line, setting the rhythm for the whole group. She grew up in a favela; her mother once sold fried bean fritters from a stall to get by. Deep-curled long black hair tied into a high ponytail, bronze skin, large eyes, deep dimples, a full figure with a clearly defined waist. A ring of coloured wish ribbons is always tied around her wrist.

Personality. Passionate, domineering, and loves to laugh. When the drums start, she’s like a lit fuse; if anyone’s rhythm is off, she’ll call them out right to their face. Never backs down with words, but fiercely protective of the kids in her troupe. Spends money without a care—there’s never any left in her pocket. Talks fast, loves slang, and often ends sentences with a hearty laugh.