Posted in Blog on Aug 04, 2025.
At the Bridging Futures event, Kogi Ambassador, Jose Manuel Sauna Mamatacan, Translated by Paula Rodriguez, delivered a special cultural address, sharing Kogi wisdom about relationships with the natural world, and a powerful ritual which captured the presence of all who came together and experienced this as One. We do not need to speak the same mother tongue to feel, to be as One. And as One with Nature.
The indigenous Kogi people of Columbia have deep concerns about the environmental changes impacting the natural world. Jose Manuel and his community feel driven to share their message in the hope of reshaping perceptions of the physical world.
The Kogi are guardians of ancient Indigenous wisdom and maintain that they have divine responsibility of caring for the earth, given to them by the Great Mother, Aluna (trans. spirit) from the dawn of time or when the world was born from her thoughts.
For the Kogi, life must be achieved in line with maintaining balance through their ancient cultures and traditions including ritual, dance, song and ceremony. They maintain that their connection to Mother Earth, who is alive beneath our feet, is crucial for keeping the world in balance, ensuring all species can thrive.
Munekan Masha: Reviving Water in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta is a project which focuses on the regeneration of water, flora and fauna, and clarifies the importance and value of Kogi knowledge and methods in protecting and sustaining nature.
Life is sacred and must be protected. Everything is connected. Everything has an important function to maintain balance. Human beings are part of this natural order. It is vital to live in peace and harmony with Nature. And to respect Nature’s changes.
The Kogi message is simple - We must take care of our planet because it is the Home of All.
It was an honour to be blessed with this powerful and important sharing of the Kogi perspective at this event built around coming together as a global community to think about building bridges towards a thriving planetary future for all. BRIDGES are hugely thankful to our valued coalition members The Kogi, represented by Jose Manuel.
Thank you to Betsan Celf Calon for capturing such emotive photos.
Please enjoy the reel of photos from this special session below.
