Programs
Teyolia Organization's programs are intricately woven with Nahua indigenous philosophies, embodying the essence of "In Ixtli In Yollotl" to empower individuals and communities. Rooted in the belief that true empowerment begins with "a wise face and a good heart", these programs are crafted to guide participants on a transformative journey towards reclaiming their inherent power, autonomy, and sovereignty. Drawing teaching and concepts from ancient Nahua wisdom, Teyolia's initiatives are designed to nurture not only the intellect but also the spirit, fostering an ancestral approach to personal and communal growth. Through a blend of traditional teachings and contemporary methodologies, participants are guided, supported and encouraged to rediscover their cultural roots, strengthen and heal their sense of identity, and forge pathways towards self-determination.
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Cultural Education
"Neixtlamachiliztli"
Teyolia's Cultural Program is rooted in the philosophy of “the act of giving wisdom to the face.”
Education is like the art of making people stronger and wiser. According to Nahua Philosophy, when we're born, we're not "complete" due to our lack wisdom. Education helps us become better by giving us wisdom and strength, shaping our character into something valuable, like a polished "turquoise gem".
It teaches us how to live well by learning things like self-control, moderation, and cleanliness, while also helping us avoid harmful habits like pride and carelessness.
Art Program
"In Xochitl In Cuicatl"
"Flower and Song," represents finding balance between reason and passion and active and passive aspects of life.
This idea is symbolized by Quetzalcoatl, who is both male and female, like a bird and a snake combined.
Engaging in artistic expression helps people connect with the divine energy, or "Teotl," and align their hearts with it. While humans can't fully imitate the cosmic creativity of "Teotl," creating art helps us come closer to it.
Morality is also important for connecting with "Teotl" – qualities like strength, self-control, and modesty help shape our hearts in its likeness.
Youth Outreach
"In Quallotl In Yecyotl"
Teyolia Organization's youth outreach program is a beacon of guidance and empowerment, rooted in the profound philosophy of "In Quallotl In Yecyotl": That which is "fitting for"
Designed to mentor youth leadership, the program embodies the essence of morally appropriate conduct, fostering an environment where young individuals can develop their hearts and assume their true faces.
Through a combination of mentorship, education, and community engagement, the program aims to instill values of balance, purity, and authenticity in the hearts of tomorrow's leaders. Participants are encouraged to embrace a middle path, steering clear of extremes, and navigating life's challenges with wisdom and integrity. By nurturing a generation of leaders grounded in Nahua wisdom, the program not only equips youth with practical skills but also cultivates a deeper understanding of their cultural heritage and a profound sense of responsibility towards their communities. As participants journey through the program, they are guided to find their footing, stay true to themselves, and blossom into compassionate, resilient leaders who embody the timeless wisdom of "In Quallotl In Yecyotl."
Tlazolteotl Coalition
Tlazolteotl embodies purification, redemption and signifies the potential for spiritual renewal.
The Nahua Philosophy of Tlazolteotl teaches that acknowledging mistakes without shame leads to spiritual growth. She offers forgiveness and the chance for inner cleansing, allowing individuals to start afresh on their spiritual path.
The Tlazolteotl Coalition serves as a light of hope and healing for survivors of different types of violence and abuse.This program extends a nurturing hand to those who have endured pain and abuse by offering a safe haven where survivors can find solace and strength in solidarity. Rooted in the concept of purification and transformation, this coalition endeavors to transmute the anguish and rage of survivors into a source of empowerment. Through a blend of emotional and spiritual support, survivors are gently guided on a journey of healing and self-discovery.
The coalition stands as a pillar of advocacy, empowering survivors to seek the proper course of action needed according to each situation, providing unwavering guidance through either:
a) Embracing a restorative justice approach,
b) Legal process,
tailored to the unique circumstances of each case.
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By fostering a sense of community and collective action, the Tlazolteotl Coalition harnesses the transformative power of unity, paving the way for survivors to reclaim their agency, find their voice, and emerge from the shadows as beacons of resilience and hope.
Tlamacehualiztli: Earning Respect and Reciprocity
Tlamacehualiztli represents the principle that each person holds the responsibility to earn their place and merit respect within the community. This respect is not freely given but earned through actions—actions rooted in reciprocity, humility, accountability, and service to others. The idea is that honor, dignity, and respect are continuously worked toward and maintained, both in personal conduct and within the larger community.
This principle emphasizes that every individual must contribute to the community through genuine effort, reinforcing the idea that nothing of true value, whether it be respect or honor, is simply given. It reflects the deeply interconnected nature of Nahua social values, where the community thrives when individuals actively participate in creating balance, justice, and respect for one another.
Tlamacehualiztli is a guiding principle for all of Teyolia’s Cultural Humility, Conflict Resolution and Accountability, Dialogue Circles and Group Facilitation training programs. These programs are designed to create a deeper sense of personal and collective responsibility among participants, helping them understand the importance of living in a way that merits respect through actions that benefit both themselves and their community.
Each training program seeks to instill a sense of accountability and humility in participants, teaching them that their worth and place within the community is directly linked to how they contribute to maintaining harmony, justice, and balance. The teachings emphasize that Tlamacehualiztli is not just about individual success but about how each person's actions affect the whole community, aligning with Teyolia’s mission to create empowered, responsible individuals who actively uplift their communities.
At Teyolia, these training programs serve as foundational tools for the community to grow in harmony, understanding, and mutual respect. Each program embodies the Nahua principle of Tlamacehualiztli by stressing that the process of earning respect, trust, and dignity is a continual one, where actions must always align with core values of humility, reciprocity, and service.
By offering these training opportunities to individuals and organizations, Teyolia is not only imparting essential skills but also fostering a culture where respect is earned through meaningful contributions to community well-being. This reflects the broader mission of Teyolia—to build resilient, empowered individuals who are deeply rooted in their values and dedicated to the growth and harmony of the community.
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These programs are available to a wide array of participants, including:
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Youth: Developing their understanding of community, responsibility, and how their actions contribute to the greater good.
Community Leaders and Educators: Equipping those in leadership positions with the tools necessary to facilitate peace, dialogue, and accountability.
Organizations: For businesses, nonprofits, and groups seeking to foster a culture of inclusivity, humility, and community-centered accountability.
Tlamacehualiztli serves as the ethical and philosophical backbone of all of Teyolia’s training programs, guiding participants toward living in alignment with these teachings and becoming agents of positive change within their communities.
