Because of You, Sacred Wisdom Continues to Heal Communities

There are moments in life when we are reminded that even the smallest acts of kindness can create ripples that extend far beyond what we can see. The time we shared with the Kogi Mamos, Zaga, and Indigenous Elders this past June was one of those moments.

To every person who attended a gathering, participated in a ceremony, volunteered, offered prayers, made a donation, or simply held this work in your heart—thank you.

Your presence was far more than attendance at an event. You became part of a living bridge connecting communities, cultures, and generations. Together, we honored one of the world's oldest continuous spiritual traditions and sa while helping ensure that these sacred teachings continue to serve the people who have protected them for thousands of years.

Because of your generosity and support, the Mushendua Kunsharruna (Indigenous and Intercultural Health Model) is now able to continue its important work throughout the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta in Colombia.

This remarkable initiative, led by Mamo Rodrigo with the guidance of the Kogi Mamos and Zagas, trains dedicated volunteers and future Indigenous health leaders to serve their own communities. Students travel from remote villages to learn directly from respected Elders, preserving traditional medicinal knowledge while developing practical skills to respond to the health needs of their people.

Your support helps provide transportation, meals, lodging, educational resources, and the supplies needed to make this training possible. Upon completing the program, participants receive certification from the Teku Foundation, a program recognized by the Colombian government and partnering universities for its contribution to Indigenous education and community wellness.

Because of their sensitivities to Western medicine and pharmaceuticals, participants learn to prepare traditional medicines using native plants, flowers, moon-infused water, and sea vapor—remedies that have supported the health of Indigenous communities for countless generations. They are also trained to recognize emerging illnesses, respond to community health concerns, and help preserve an invaluable healing tradition that might otherwise be lost, and bring this wisdom back to their tribes.

While the Mamos and Zaga traveled thousands of miles to share their wisdom with us, your generosity now allows that same wisdom to continue serving the communities from which it came.

This is the beautiful cycle of reciprocity that the Elders often speak about.

As we reflect on our time together this June, we are filled with gratitude—not only for the teachings we received, but for the incredible community that gathered around them. Each of you played a role in something much larger than any one event. Together, we helped strengthen an Indigenous-led initiative that is preserving sacred knowledge, improving community health, and empowering the next generation of caretakers in the Sierra Nevada.

From our hearts, and on behalf of the Kogi Mamos, Zagas, the Teku Foundation, and the many families whose lives will be touched by this work—

Thank you.

Your kindness, generosity, and willingness to walk this path with us continue to create a meaningful impact. The seeds planted during our time together are already growing, and because of you, this sacred work continues. We have several more communities in need and plan to do our best to support them in continuing this work. Every bit helps.

With gratitude,

Denise. Michael, Mamos Rodrigo, and the Tezhuna Elders

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