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In Ifa-Orisa, the Yoruba people’s traditional spiritual practice and divination system, individuals are encouraged to unveil and understand their destinies to live fruitful, joyous lives. Leaders at in Southeast D.C. introduce community members to Ifa-Orisa and holistic wellness, hoping to break the negative cycles caused by ongoing historic injustices toward the African diaspora. 

The house – considered a healing center – focuses on restoring Black people’s mental, emotional and spiritual health. This is achieved through various methods, including Orisa song and drum classes every first and third Saturday of the month since 2018. 

Hosted by Babalawos (Yoruba spiritual leaders) King H. Alejaibra Badu and Kayode Nelson, these classes allow attendees to stabilize their energies and empower themselves through song. 

By hosting Orisa classes and emphasizing the power of sung prayer, Badu adamantly keeps ancestral traditions and rhythms alive to connect the diaspora to Africa and provide attendees, especially those who may feel displaced within the diaspora, with a means of stepping into their own authentic identities. 

“We’re able to provide them with education, a retelling of how to embrace these rhythms, how these rhythms connect with aspects of the body [and] how these rhythms connect with aspects of nature, allowing them… to be more empowered,” Badu said. 

According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, Yoruba youth are losing interest in the Ifa divination system as a result of colonial rule and religious prejudices, which causes an increase in intolerance for traditional spiritual methods. 

Born in Trinidad and Tobago, Nelson aims to ignite a desire for faith within his community. He’s observed a grave lack of religious and spiritual practices in the United States compared to his country. He hopes that introducing people to these ancient customs will strengthen the diaspora’s connection to each other and God.  

Singing, for Nelson, is a means of prayer, as songs are heartfelt and ooze with emotion. 

“We have a saying that says a song is three times more powerful than a prayer,” Nelson said. 

Dynamic Duo Works to Enrich Lives, ‘A Magic in Southeast‘

Both Babalawos believe singing and drumming are necessary medicines for people’s bodies, minds and souls. Historically, Yoruba music is a way to communicate, celebrate and connect with one’s heritage. By introducing the local community to new ways of life, they hope to enrich and improve people’s quality of life. 

Nelson began collaborating with Badu following the passing of spiritual leader Chief Iya N’Ifa Ifarinoola Efunyale, known by many as Mother Taylor. He credits her for the spreading of spiritual practices in Washington and wants to continue her mission of giving back to the community and opening the public’s eyes to the complexities of spirituality. 

“There’s a magic in Southeast,” said Nelson. “Of course, it’s the roughest part of D.C., but you’ve got to try and spread the love.”

Badu shares the same sentiment and by reflecting on the Yoruba concept of God’s will, wants to spread compassion throughout the community. He began the song and drum classes to help people reignite their willpower and live happily. 

“To be in God’s will is to be in the sweetness of life, and right now, a lot of people are suffering because there is no sweetness,… no joy in life,” he said. 

As Babalawos, Badu and Nelson must do all they can to protect and improve their communities. They perform spiritual consultations and rituals, are adept in Yoruba history and must adhere to the principle of Iwapele, or good character. 

Even though he is committed to the responsibilities that come with his title, Badu has not always wanted this lifestyle. He comes from a long line of spiritual leaders; his mother and grandmother are Ifaiyas, and his grandfather is a Babalawo. Badu ran from becoming one for most of his life, believing he’d be forced to be someone he’s not. 

Despite his initial hesitation toward acquiring the title, Badu has fully accepted and immersed himself in the mission of connecting individuals with their spiritual needs since he became a full-fledged Babalawo in 2021. 

“Because of the Babalawo, you’re gonna understand that everyone might not choose their destiny in this lifetime, but to be able to see them, be aware of them and still love them requires great patience,” Badu said.