Chief Oluwo Obafemi Fayemi Epega is a renowned Babalawo and the founder of O.I.D.S.I. (Obafemi Institute for the Divine & Universal Study of Ifa). He was initiated as a priest of Obatala in January 2004 and received his Tefa in February 2005 from the late Oluwo Dr. Afolabi Epega at the Epega Compound in Akure, Ondo State, Nigeria. He strongly believes in the restoration and preservation of African divine sciences and traditions to restore psychological balance and personal empowerment to all people.
Born Stephen Benjamin Clark Mackey on December 30, 1957, in Houston, TX, Chief Oluwo Obafemi Fayemi Epega is the fifth child of Vivian and Fletcher Mackey Sr. He is the father of four boys: Stephen Jr., Corey, Sheldon, and Jordan. Baba Femi is the author of the book entitled “Who is Sambo?”, "The Fundamentals of Odu," and several manuals on Ifa rights of passage, rituals, and ceremonies. He has also established a significant YouTube presence through Ifa-related lectures and classes over the years. As a dedicated scholar and practitioner of Ifa for over a decade, Baba Femi has facilitated Ifa workshops worldwide, including in Mexico, Australia, Brazil, Europe, and the Caribbean. He has been invited to share his knowledge and insights on numerous radio shows and major university campuses.
Baba Femi has participated as a consultant and panelist in discussions aimed at assessing and improving the mental and spiritual health of the Black and global community. His work has been the focus of documentary films produced by renowned documentarians. In addition to overseeing more than 900 ceremonies and rituals, he has facilitated or served as the principal liaison for the initiations of over 80 Ifa and Olorisha priests.
With the blessings of Olodumare, his ancestors, and Ifa, Chief Oluwo Obafemi Fayemi Epega fully embraces his life journey as what his heart has chosen. He is proud to be an African American man, native Houstonian, descendant of slaves, priest of Ifa, teacher, author, mentor, son, friend, and loving and honorable godfather.
Who is Chief Oluwo Obafemi Fayemi?
"The good student asks many questions."~ Chief Oluwo Obafemi Fayemi
"The roots of a tree never cast a shadow." ~ Yoruba Proverb
“I have been fortunate enough to have traveled to many parts of the world, where I've made connections with and impacted people from all walks of life.
During these travels, I've learned a few valuable lessons. I've learned the importance of humility, recognizing that I've been blessed with more than most and never taking that for granted. Patience has also been a key lesson, as I realize that I am forever a student of the universe and life itself.
As I learn, I teach, and as I teach, I learn. I find joy and pride in witnessing growth in others. One thing remains certain: as long as the student is willing, the teacher will always appear.”
~Chief Oluwo Obafemi Fayemi Epega
