About Ninunihu, Yaka and Tawahu Yawanawa

Tawahu Yawanawa is a respected spiritual leader, healer, and singer from the Yawanawá indigenous people, an Amazonian tribe (known as the People of the wild boar) living in the Rio Gregório Indigenous Land in Acre, Brazil. As the son and apprentice of the legendary medicine man (pajé) Yawarani—who lived to 106 and passed in 2018—Tawahu carries forward a profound lineage of traditional knowledge, including sacred plant medicines like ayahuasca (uni), rapé (hapé), and ceremonial songs. He travels to share Yawanawá healing practices, rituals, and music, often with family members, preserving ancestral wisdom while bridging it to modern audiences through retreats, festivals, and recordings.

His daughters, Ninunihu and Yaka, represent the feminine force and next generation of this vibrant tradition. Both are talented singers who infuse their voices with spiritual strength drawn from their Yawanawá heritage

Ninunihu Yawanawa, named after her respected grandmother (a renowned singer), is the daughter of Tawahu and Ana. She has participated in spiritual ceremonies since childhood alongside her grandfather Yawarani and father, bringing powerful, heartfelt Saitis that carry deep ancestral energy. She is gaining recognition as an artist, with releases highlighting her role in keeping indigenous Amazonian music alive.

Yaka Yawanawa is similarly a dedicated student of spirituality and a singer from a young age. She transmits ceremonial songs rooted in joy, healing, and connection to the forest. Together with Ninunihu, she collaborates on tracks and projects that blend traditional Yawanawá chants with contemporary expressions.

The family often performs and records together—as seen in works under Tawahu Yawanawa & Família, or collaborations like those by Ninunihu & Yaka—sharing the living sounds of the Amazon through albums, music videos, and international events.

Their work honors the Yawanawá’s resilience, cultural revival, and deep bond with the rainforest’s medicines and spirits.

The Yawanawa will be on the Grove Main Stage on Friday April 17th and will be offering workshops on April 19th throughout the day.

See their schedule here.

Connect

Instagram: @tawahuefamilia