Ana Nzinga of Mbande Ndogo Queen Nzinga (c. 1583 – 1663) was a powerful 17th-century African queen who resisted Portuguese colonization in what is now Angola. Nzinga led a fierce resistance against the Portuguese, who were attempting to establish a colony in Luanda and expand their slave trade. She was a skilled military strategist, employing guerilla warfare tactics and forming alliances with other African leaders to fight against the Portuguese. Refusing to bow to Portuguese slave traders, Nzinga waged a guerilla war for decades, forming strategic alliances and mastering guerilla tactics. Nicknamed "Njinga Mbande," meaning "Queen who turns men into women," she outsmarted and outmanoeuvred her enemies, securing temporary peace treaties and preserving her people's autonomy. Her cunning and resilience remain an inspiration for those fighting for freedom and justice. Nzinga's leadership inspired other African leaders to resist European colonization, and her legacy continues to be celebrated as a symbol of resistance against oppression. Painted wooden head with authentic African fabric, eyelashes, paper lips and eyebrows, metal and rhinestone or fabric/yarn earrings, plastic jewels and glitter glue.