Greetings, thank you for visiting the Kindezi Rites Of Passage Youth Empowerment website. I am so excited about all that has happened to bring this vision into manifestation. This has been (and still is) a labor of love for myself and those who partner with me. Many years ago, in a dream, I saw multitudes of young people walking with me across the city. I asked God, "Where am I taking them? What do you want me to do with them?"  God answered, "Tell them what they must do; show them." I asked, "But how?" The reply was simple but profound, "Follow your heart." 

In 2001, while on a visit to Baltimore, MD, I went into a book store to browse. I came across a book entitled, "Kindezi: The Kongo Art of Babysitting"by K. Kia Bunseki and A.M. Lukando-Wamba, Authors. Let me tell you,  that book redirected my thinking.  At first I thought, "Ok, why would I want to read a book about babysitting?" After having read the introduction, I realized that the term "babysitting" had a very different meaning.  It had to do with  the process of healing fractured individuals, families and communities based on the ancient concept of reciprocal nurturing rather than leading.  Simply stated, the art of Kindezi is to train youth to become nurturers, healers, providers and protectors of our families and communities.  This  was my vision...my dream. Kindezi Rites Of Passage Youth Empowerment, Inc was born of this concept and,  with the assistance of partners, encouragers and supporters, we will continue our mission of cultivating nurturers for today and tomorrow. Hotep and God bless!

 Eshe'

Simply stated, Queen Mother Allen is a jewel. This 82 year-young mother of six, grandmother, great-grandmother, mentor and wise woman is Kindezi's guiding elder. She is the epitome of integrity and humility. With a stern hand and a gentle smile, Queen Mother Allen dispenses her brand of wise instruction with expertise and love. She is a jewel in the community and beloved amongst the youth and adults alike. Kindezi Rites Of Passage is blessed beyond measure to have her in our midst covering our work with her love and guidance. Ase!