Mission

To create transformative wellness and cultural retreats in Africa that support members of the African diaspora in healing, reconnecting with their roots, and growing in community. 

Vision

A world united in healing, collaboration, and collective well-being for the African diaspora and all marginalized communities. 

The Founders of One Umbrella Retreats

Chris began his career as a Web Developer at the BBC in London before deciding to take a different path and relocate to Asia. While living in China, he worked as a language teacher and travel writer for the BBC, and later as a Mandarin Chinese translator for a Hollywood director. It was during his years in China that he developed a deep interest in Traditional Chinese Medicine, natural remedies and holistic approaches to wellbeing. Chris later moved to Japan, where the influence of Zen traditions led him to develop a regular meditation practice. He went on to establish his own language school in Osaka, which he successfully ran for nearly a decade. Now back in London, Chris brings together the experiences and practices that have shaped his journey.For nearly two decades, he has been an advocate for natural healing, meditation and the use of nutritious foods, herbs and a balanced diet to support mental wellbeing, emotional balance and overall health.

Fimo is a meditation teacher, podcast host and writer. His meditation journey began in 2009 after visiting India, and since then, he has completed thousands of hours of practice and two mindfulness courses. Fimo's deep passion for wellness led him to launch mindfulness programs for students and teachers while working in China as an English teacher for 16 years. In 2020, Fimo founded When The Village Meditates, a nonprofit dedicated to offering meditation, yoga, and wellness retreats for racialized and marginalized communities. He is also the host of the When The Village Meditates podcast, where he shares his insights on mindfulness and personal growth.