Women's Initiation
We organize and accompany women on initiatory journeys to Africa where they can immerse themselves in the Mabanji tradition, tracing its roots to the ancestral teachings of the Bwiti. This distinctive experience provides a profound connection to spirituality and sisterhood.
COMING 2026
women's initiation
Women’s Initiation Journey
At Root and Wisdom, we invite women to embark on a life-changing initiatory journey to Africa, immersing themselves in the sacred Mabanji and Maboundi tradition—two lineages deeply rooted in the ancestral teachings of the Bwiti. These journeys offer a profound opportunity for personal growth, spiritual connection, and the chance to forge deep bonds of sisterhood while engaging in meaningful reciprocity with the communities that welcome us with open hearts.
As a wise elder once shared with Troy, “What Iboga needs most is not more men lost in their egos, but women—leaders who are strong and who can allow Iboga to work its magic through the power of their divine feminine energy.”
A Journey of Spiritual Transformation and Connection
Joaly, co-founder of Root and Wisdom, experienced her own initiation into the Maboundi tradition while five months pregnant. During this sacred journey, she formed a deep connection with Mama Toto, a remarkable woman who embodies the essence of a spiritual mother. Mama Toto’s nurturing yet empowering presence left an indelible mark on Joaly, inspiring her to dedicate herself to restoring and transforming the women’s village where her initiation took place.
supporting the women's village
Mama Toto’s village currently operates with the bare essentials, lacking clean drinking water, sturdy accommodations, and other fundamental necessities. Root and Wisdom, alongside our nonprofit Sacred Roots Foundation, is committed to restoring this sanctuary. Through donations and contributions, we aim to create a thriving space where women can undergo their initiations in safety and dignity.
To make your journey more comfortable, most of your stay will be in a nearby village offering essential amenities such as clean drinking water, reliable electricity, and Wi-Fi. However, the actual initiation ceremonies will take place at Mama Toto’s village, immersing you fully in the sacred and transformative energy of the space.
a vision for empowerment
We aim to create safe and transparent opportunities for women of the West—particularly women of color—who feel a deep ancestral calling to return to the lands of Africa. This initiation journey transcends colonial borders and honors the united heritage of a continent.
Looking to the future, we envision programs that empower women seeking new beginnings, such as those transitioning out of prison, by guiding them through initiations that inspire renewal and transformation.
what to expect on your journey
We are committed to ensuring that each woman’s initiation process is safe, supportive, and enriching. Our offerings include:
- Secure Travel Arrangements
Assistance with travel logistics, including obtaining visas, packing guidance, and preparing for your journey.
- Supportive Accommodations
Comfortable housing in a nearby village with modern essentials like clean drinking water, electricity, and Wi-Fi for the majority of your stay.
- Ceremonial Guidance
Dedicated facilitators and English-speaking guides will support you throughout the ceremonial process, ensuring you feel cared for and fully immersed.
- Preparation and Reciprocity
Guidance on personal items to bring and donations for the village, allowing you to contribute directly to the community that hosts your sacred journey.
The Power of Reciprocity
Each woman who participates in this journey contributes to the restoration of the women’s village. Sacred Roots Foundation directs 85% of its donations toward rebuilding accommodations, providing clean water, and securing vital resources. Your initiation becomes not only a gift to yourself but also a profound act of giving back to the communities that safeguard and share these sacred traditions.
Answering the Call
This is more than an initiation—it is a sacred calling. A step toward spiritual transformation, ancestral connection, and collective healing. We are honored to walk alongside you as you take this transformative step into the Mabanji tradition and beyond.