Bridge Between Worlds

Who stands behind Shanenawa Family?

 

Behind our association are people who haven't just crossed paths with the Shanenawa people—but feel deeply connected to them on a soul level. What began as a fateful encounter turned into deep trust, genuine friendship, and a shared vision. We have founded a family here in Europe that is directly connected, with an honest heart, to the Shanenawa people in Brazil.

The founders include Frédéric Stromenger and Carolina Wolter, alongside fellow travelers who, from the bottom of their hearts, have chosen to make this life task their mission.

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How was Shanenawa Family born?

 

Shanenawa Family was born from a profound, genuine experience—from moments of silent listening, learning, and being deeply moved. Because we, as members, had the immeasurable gift of coming into contact with the Shanenawa people and, most notably, with the founders of Instituto Pakakuru—Manipá, Xanupá, and Vawinawa—a deep connection to their vision was born.

Their dedication to protecting nature, the sacred medicines, and preserving indigenous culture touched our hearts to the very core. It became instantly clear to us: this connection cannot just live on in our memories—it must take action. Thus, out of a profound encounter, a true responsibility was born. And out of this responsibility, our association came to life.

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What is the mission of the association?

 

Our mission is to be a living, breathing bridge—between Europe and the Amazon, between people, cultures, and different worldviews.

We support concrete projects for reforestation, the protection of culture, and the strengthening of indigenous communities—always in direct cooperation and at eye level with the Shanenawa people.

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Why support the Shanenawa people?

 

Because they are the guardians of something that is of invaluable worth to us all. The Shanenawa carry an ancient, living knowledge within themselves — about nature, about healing, and about the cosmic balance of life.

To protect the forest means to protect this knowledge. And to protect this knowledge means to secure our shared future.

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How does the association's work function in practice?

 

We don't just gather anonymous donations — we create genuine connection and awaken awareness here in Europe. Through events, gatherings, and educational work, we weave a growing network of people who actively stand up for the protection of the Amazon.

The raised funds flow directly to Instituto Pakakuru, where they are implemented on the ground without detours into concrete projects — entirely carried out and guided by the indigenous community itself.

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How is transparency guaranteed?

 

Trust is the absolute foundation of our work. Since we see ourselves as a family, we stand in close, direct contact with Instituto Pakakuru and accompany the projects with great attentiveness and responsibility.

Our goal is for every bit of support to be completely traceable, transparent, and effective.

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What impact has been achieved so far?

 

Already, the bridge is taking root and transforming realities. Trees are being planted, awareness is growing, and people are connecting across continents for this shared, sacred cause.

We have already succeeded in supporting vital initiatives for cultural and spiritual strengthening within the village, and actively participating in projects for the protection of indigenous rights. With every step, this web of life grows stronger.

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What are the greatest challenges?

 

Weaving two such different worlds together also means bridging boundaries—in language, culture, and the entire way of life. Yet, precisely within this exchange lies the power: we learn to truly listen to one another and to walk new, sustainable paths together.

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How can people support?

 

Every contribution counts and is a blessing. Whether through a donation, sharing our work in daily life, or participating in our events—every form of support helps this bridge to grow further.

What also helps us immensely is to carry forward and spread the message of the "Voice of the Forest" into the world—because she needs help very urgently right now.

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What message do you wish to leave behind?

 

When we begin to reconnect deeply with nature, the true healing begins within ourselves.

Every human being who supports this path becomes part of a worldwide movement of love—for the forest, for the people, and for life itself. Shava Shava! 🌿