Hapé Makers Spotlight ~ Nawashahu

Nawashahu is the eldest daughter of Putanny and Chief Nixiwaka Yawanawa. Raised to be a leader, she has dedicated herself to studying Yawanawa spirituality, learning from the elders, and deepening her knowledge. As a guardian of this ancient wisdom and a talented singer, Nawashahu has accompanied her parents on their travels and work since a young age.

Nawashahu’s Rapé, also known as “Força Feminina”, is a beautiful feminine blend from the Yawanawa tradition, named after its creator. She is one of the few women in her tribe who crafts her own Rapé, following the traditional Yawanawa recipe of Rustica and Tsunu tree ashes. Nawashahu is a gifted composer and singer of medicine songs, playing a vital role in tribal ceremonies.

The Yawanawa people, residing deep within the Amazon in Acre, Brazil, are stewards of the rainforest. This indigenous community of about 1,500 people is spread across nearly half a million acres and has preserved their cultural traditions despite numerous external threats. Their songs, dances, stories, and ceremonies bind them in celebration and pass down their wisdom through generations. Living in harmony with the jungle, the Yawanawa offer invaluable cultural treasures and lessons for humanity.

We at Katkina.US are humbled and blessed to be able to support our sister, Nawashahu, and her tribe's traditions through sharing this medicine.