Noire Rope Jam with Zuberi
Shibari: A Journey to Pleasure Beyond Penetration
As part of my exploration of pleasure that exists outside the realm of penetration, I decided to try something new: a Shibari session. Attending alone felt like a purposeful decision—being solo gave me the space to truly absorb the experience without the distraction of worrying about others’ feelings or reactions.
My introduction to the world of rope play came through a few rope jams at Anatomie Studios. The first time, I went with friends to a lively, open-for-all fundraising event led by Eleni. It was a fun and welcoming experience that left me curious for more. That curiosity eventually led me to discover Zuberi’s sessions with Noire Events, a space thoughtfully created for the POC community to explore Shibari in an environment that celebrates inclusivity and culture.
My First Session With Zuberi
My first session with Zuberi was last year, just before I underwent surgery. My partner that evening was incredible, allowing me to take the lead in tying. This was empowering, especially since I was self-conscious about my body’s limitations and the possibility of it betraying me at any moment.
Zuberi set the tone for the session with an engaging, concise history of Shibari. He wove in his personal story, sharing his path through martial arts, tantra, and over a decade of experience in rope work. What stood out most was his unapologetic passion for creating a space where people of colour can confidently explore Shibari as a form of self-expression and artistry within the kink scene.
A space for empowerment and expression
As a Black person of African descent, Zuberi doesn’t just teach Shibari—he embodies its principles of trust, creativity, and intimacy. He recognises the importance of providing a space to explore without the weight of judgement or cultural disconnection, allowing participants to truly thrive in their experience.
From his thoughtful storytelling to his hands-on guidance, he creates an environment that feels safe and inviting. For me, it was more than a lesson—it was an exploration of my own vulnerability and an opportunity to reconnect with my body in a new and beautiful way.
What I Took Away
Zuberi’s sessions taught me that Shibari isn’t just about the ropes or the aesthetic beauty of the ties. It’s about the connections you make—with yourself, your partner, and the space around you. It’s a practice steeped in consent, trust, and self-expression.
Most importantly, it reminded me that pleasure is multifaceted. It’s not confined to traditional notions or expectations but can be found in the simple act of slowing down, being present, and embracing your body for all its strengths and imperfections.
If you’re curious about Shibari or looking for ways to explore pleasure and intimacy in a non-traditional way, I can’t recommend Zuberi’s sessions enough. They’re a blend of artistry, and empowerment with a hint of history—a space where you’re encouraged to explore, create, and, most importantly, just be.
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