HÃPAYA Baptism

The Hãpaya is a sacred pepper baptism of the Huni Kuin people that is used to achieve good memory, intelligence and, most importantly, 𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝘃𝗼𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 speaking your truth. In the Huni Kuin tradition it’s a way that they are able to learn their sacred prayers and songs.

This baptism is connected to the spirit of the Txana bird - a bird from the Amazon Rainforest that can imitate the singing of all other birds. Its symbolic meaning and main purpose is to connect us all to the spirit of the birds through singing, memorizing songs and cleaning our voices for us to become better singers and communicators. 

This baptism is a rare and very special opportunity for those who are keen to learn Huni Kuin chants or wish to sing more and communicate in a better way - blessed by the ancestral wisdom of nature, its animals and spirits.

The ceremony will be led by Samia Biruany, Shaya & Samara Huni Kuin - spiritual leaders, teachers and very talented musicians from the Huni Kuin people.

The JAPINI (Golden-winged cacique/ Cacicus Chrysopterus) is a yellow and black bird that is able to replicate all of the sounds of the rainforest birds. The Huni Kuin believe that the japini gave them their voice, their ability to sing. In Hantxa Kuin, the Huni Kuin language, this bird is also called a TXANA.

Força Feminina

Meet the 3 powerful new leaders of the Huni Kuin tribe. Blessed by their pajé (Shaman) to go and spread the energy of the what they call the Força Feminina, the feminine energy. The energy that helps to remember, heal and nurture our souls. These women are known for their powerful voices and healing powers in ceremony. Don't miss this rare opportunity to meet these powerful forces of the Amazone.

They'll be joined by their Brazilian guardian Luiza Jardim, who has been working closely with them and who is deeply connected and involved in supporting the Huni Kuin & other Amazonian indigenous cultures.

Samia Biruany Huni Kuin

Is a prominent spiritual leader who combines leadership, spirituality, and empowerment within her cultural context. As a representative of the Mawa Isa Keneya group, she holds a pivotal role within her community, where she leads and oversees spiritual practices.

Biruany is notably the first Huni Kuin woman to lead spiritual works and engage in pioneering studies, challenging traditional gender roles and expectations. Beyond her village, Biruany's influence transcends borders. Her international travels have enabled her to mesmerize audiences with her powerful voice, which echoes the beauty, charm, and feminine force of the forest.

Shayá Huni Kuin

Is the Daughter of the chief Txana Mashá Assis Kaxinawa from Pinuya village, a mother, a talented txaná (singer) & artisan. Shayá began her journey into spirituality at a very young age. Under the guidance of her grandfather Pajé Kupi, she entered her samakey diet strengthening her studies with the sacred master plants.

Within her village she is one of the main leaders of Mawa Isa Keneya. Her presence is warm, grounded and deeply wise. She's also been traveling around the world, spreading the beauty of the Huni Kuin female force wherever she goes.

Samara Huni Kuin (Maxi)

Is Biruany’s younger sister and carries both Huni Kuin and Yawanawa lineage in her blood. Not only is she a young leader, a mother, and artisan, she is a very talented txaná (singer), sharing the chants of her people through her powerful voice and incredible guitar playing.

Samara emanates a unique and vibrant presence and has been traveling around the world sharing the powerful force of the forest, representing the new generation of the Huni Kuin people.