Meet the Course Moderators

Iya Okandinije (Nicole Carr-Lomax), Priestess of Òsun

“ I am honored and grateful for this opportunity to work with Alajé Fadesiyé and moderate this course. As we move through this course I want to create a safe place for growth, development and curiosity, keeping in mind that the material has been prepared and I am moderating but it’s our experiences that breathe life into each lesson, allowing us to learn from each other.”

Okandinije (Nicole Carr-Lomax) has been a practitioner of the Orisha faith for 20 years under the guidance of our elders Asabi Agongoloju (Godmother) and Olubi Davis (Ojibona). In July of 2005 she was initiated into priesthood as an omo Oshun. Since her initiation she been an active member of our community. As a member of the community she understands that her work is an act of service to the Orisha that ultimately leads to the growth, development, and healing of not only her own life but to others that walk onto the path that is our beautiful tradition. Dedicated to healing she works as a Nurse Practitioner and is the founder of natural cosmetic line “Hunee Be”, a tribute to Oshun as it reminds us that there are no limitations to the beauty of life. One of her favorite proverbs is from South Africa; “I am because we are.” This proverb is important to her because it reflects a belief in a universal bond of sharing, community and caring that connects all humans.

Iya Oderinde (Beatrice Manning), Priestess of Osoosi

Beatrice Manning, has been a devotee of the Yoruba/Lukumi spiritual tradition for over 30 years. She was initiated as a priest to Osoosi (Oshosi/Ochosi), The Divine Hunter, in 2001, in the ilé (house) of Agongoloju and Oshunleyé, her esteemed godparents.

In addition to learning the requirements of the priesthood, "Iya Bibi" as she is fondly called, also became an alashé (specialist) for the preparation of ritual foods that are sacred to the Yoruba deities known as Orisha, the Egun (ancestors) and other ceremonial food preparation. In addition to being blessed with three initiated children of her own, she is also a proud godparent to 2 initiated godchildren and to a wonderful group of individuals who are exploring their own paths in Lukumi tradition.

In her secular life, Iya Bibi is an experienced, Certified Herbalist and Dietary Consultant, as well as a Licensed Certified Massage Therapist.

Baba'Miwa, Priestess of Obatala

Obatala is the father of the white cloth, the father of good character (Iwa Rere). Oshun, my mother whom I am forever grateful for, as she helps me to navigate through life with intelligence and a lil mo’ sweetness!

My name Baba’Miwa means “father molds my character.” As good character is indicative of gentleness, Integrity, trustworthiness, being non-judgmental, non-controlling, inner peace, laughter, forgiveness, patience and understanding, etc., daily I am being molded...daily I am grateful even when experiencing “ouch” moments. For almost 15 years I've had the honor of being initiated to Obatala Ayaguna! My mother Creola Kizart-Hampton raised and cultivated my tenacity. My godparents, Iyalorisha Asabi Agongoloju and Babalorisha Alaje Ifadesiye continue to help raise me as a responsible, knowledgeable, caring, and respectful Iyalorisha (well at least I try:):):)) I am blessed with some amazing God children! They make me a better human Being. The house continues to grow and grow every month it seems...I am grateful. My prayers is to cultivate a legacy of love and knowledge of developing a relationship with Egun, our Spirit Guides, and the Orishas for it is my experience that they work together for our greater good! I am clear that the Orisha saved my life and then gave me a life! As we venture into this class together, I pray that we partner what we learn with the everlasting truth that “love is the light forward is the motion.”