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Santiago Ayala (Ecuador)
Founder, San Pedro Curandero (Traditional Healer)
Santiago is a highly respected Shaman and a gifted healer. He has learned sacred teachings from many ancestral traditions. Santiago carries the blessings of his tribal chiefs, family, many indigenous Elders and the Spirit of the South. He is a Sun dancer, carrier of the sacred Chanupa (sacred pipe), and holds space for Vision Quests. Santiago has received many intitations from the Inca Elders, including the holy bundle of the South, the Misha Cuyas, and is a Pampamisayoc, an Andean Priest.
Santiago devoted his life to the shamanic path at age 26 after overcoming a serious illness. He is the guardian of one of the last San Pedro and Willka trees forests in southern Ecuador, preparing it in the traditional way to be used for healing purposes. His medicine songs, prayers and blessings carry a powerful intention to heal the heart with the sacred spirit of San Pedro.
Yana Bartova
Ayahuasca Curandera (Traditional Healer)
Yana Bartova, known as Tatzimoi (“the bird that accompanies families with its song”), is a healer and teacher rooted in ancient traditions. Originally from the Czech Republic, she spent 10 years in Mexico studying medicine, temazcales, moon dances, and sacred singing.
After a transformative experience with Ayahuasca, she moved to South America to deepen her connection with the plant, working alongside her husband, Mira Jempe, to guide healing and ceremonies worldwide.
In the Vilcabamba Valley, Yana founded the Agua Women’s Collective, a space for women to explore ancestral medicines, art, and singing. She lives with her family in the mountains, nurturing a sanctuary dedicated to the sacred mother, and is deeply grateful for the life and wisdom she shares.
Mira Jempe
Ayahuasca Curandero (Traditional Healer)
Mira Jempe, born in the Czech Republic, faced debilitating body pain from a young age, ultimately diagnosed with “incurable” rheumatoid arthritis. Determined to find healing, Mira journeyed to Spain, where he discovered the power of movement and meditation with his teacher, John, a Chen-style Tai Chi master. These practices, combined with his creative expression through painting, helped him release physical and emotional blockages.
Mira’s path then led him to the Amazon, where he studied under Shuar healer Miguel Shiriap and other jungle healers, learning the transformative power of Sacred Master Plants. Over three years, Mira fully healed his body, overcoming the pain that had plagued him for years. Since 2010, Mira has been leading healing ceremonies worldwide, alongside his wife, Yana.
The name Jempe, meaning “Hummingbird,” was given to him by his teacher, symbolizing infinite energy, creativity, and a joyful spirit.
