after bambaataa won an essay contest that earned him a trip to africa, his worldview shifted. he had seen the movie "zulu" and was impressed with the solidarity exhibited by the zulu in that film. during his trip to africa, the communities he visited inspired him to create one in his own neighborhood. he changed his name to afrika bambaataa aasim, adopting the name of the zulu chief bhambatha, who led an armed rebellion against unfair economic practices in early 20th century south africa. he told people that his name was zulu for "affectionate leader." bambaataa formed the "bronx river organization" as an alternative to the black spades.