Boozhoo, Greetings!

My name is EJ Kwandibens and my partner Jaime Raposo are creating a Rest & Relaxation Spiritual Retreat referred to as, AKiing NDawimi which is an Anishinaabe phrase meaning, “We are the land.”

The idea to create such a destination retreat was born from the many discussions I had with my late mother Elsie Kwandibens and Elder Ignace Kwandibens, Since I was a little boy, both my mother and uncle envisioned a space where individuals can unplug from the busy world and reconnect to the land and learn traditional teachings provided by the land. To encourage individuals to recognize the beauty and power of their natural authentic self.

Recently, both my mother and elder passed and I have made a commitment to honor their words by creating such a retreat. AKiing NDawimi provides this opportunity in the beautiful natural setting of Sao Miguel located in the Azores.

This GoFundMe is just one aspect of AKiing NDawimi fundraising efforts. The funds generated from this GoFundMe will go directly to the initial construction & startup costs of the project.

BIOGRAPHY OF RETREAT FOUNDERS

EJ KWANDIBENS (Anikay-Keesic) is an Anishinaabe cultural leader from Whitesand First Nation with over 30 years of experience in Indigenous Cultural Education, Public Speaker, Textile Artist and Traditional Knowledge Carrier. His work integrates ceremony and wellness to support physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual restoration.

JAIME RAPOSO is a multidisciplinary artist from Rabo de Peixe, São Miguel Island, with expertise in abstract concrete art, interior design, and space optimization. Having lived in Canada for 15 years, he holds dual citizenship.

The retreat is an Indigenous cross cultural initiative, rooted in the values of respect, reciprocity, and restoration. The retreat offers culturally grounded healing experiences for both the Indigenous and mainstream community. The retreat will have but not limited to a focus on mental health, spiritual well-being, and ecological harmony.

At a time when people are increasingly overloaded, disconnected, and anxious, there is a growing need to return to what is real and essential. The world is moving faster than ever, and many are seeking spaces that offer stillness, meaning, and reconnection to self and land. Akiing N’Daawimi responds to this call — offering a sanctuary where values, culture, and authenticity meet. Designed to harmonize cultural exchange, environmental stewardship, and community well-being, the project will offer a transformational experience for both international organizations and individual travelers.

The overall premise of the retreat is to recognize the significance and power of community while strengthening cultural kinships and bring together all individuals who are seeking a wholistic alternative experience connecting the physical, spiritual, mental and emotional components of the self.

AKiing NDawimi retreat will situated in a semi remote location on the beautiful island of Sao Miguel, Azores, Portugal.

PLEASE NOTE:

Given the retreat is situated in the Azores, the local currency is in Euros. The targeted goal is set at $50,000.00 Canadian however the exchange in Euros will be approximately $30,000.00.

Personal Financial Investment & Sweat Equity : $140,000.00

Fundraisers | Sponsorships | Contributions: $50,000.00

TOTAL: $190,000.00

ALL funds generated from this portion of the fundraiser will be used entirely towards Start Up & Initial Construction costs.

STAY CONNECTED AND INFORMED ON THE RETREAT PROGRESS AND DEVELOPMENT. IMAGES WILL BE POSTED SO EVERYONE CAN BE APART OF THIS EXCITING NEW PROJECT!

Chi-Meegwetch / Thank you to each of you for donating to this important cultural project. Building a strong community requires ALL members of the community to unite and celebrate TOGETHER!

Best Wishes and Humble Regards,

EJ Kwandibens & Jaime Raposo

Founders