Who We Are
At The Mbwakawen Harambee Collective, we are dedicated to fostering a deeper connection to the land by reviving and sharing traditional Native and African American ecological knowledge. Our name reflects our mission: Mbwakawen, a Potawatomi word meaning “wisdom,” and Harambee, a Swahili word meaning “pulling together.” Together, these words embody our commitment to unity, shared knowledge, and collective action.
Our mission is to engage communities in restorative practices, including gardening, herbal medicine, earth-based cultural practices, and environmental stewardship, to promote sustainability and cultural heritage. By honoring and practicing ancestral wisdom, we aim to cultivate a more resilient and harmonious future for both the environment and the communities we serve.
Through hands-on experiences in restoration, gardening, and the use of traditional herbs, we are building a movement of environmental consciousness and cultural solidarity—one rooted in respect, unity, and the deep knowledge passed down through generations.
