Davi Kopenawa Yanomami

Davi Kopenawa Yanomami, name also written Davi Kobenawä Yanomamö (born Toototobi, Brazil, c. 1956), is a Yanomami shaman and Portuguese-speaking spokesperson for the Yanomami people in Brazil. He became known for his advocacy regarding tribal issues and Amazon rainforest conservation when the tribal rights organization Survival International invited him to accept the Right Livelihood Award on its behalf in 1989. Since then, Kopenawa has traveled around the globe to speak on the catastrophic consequences of the invasion of Yanomami land and the destruction of the Amazon rainforest. As part of his advocacy for the Yanomami people and against extractivist exploitation, Kopenawa has co-authored and contributed to multiple published books that have been translated to multiple languages.

His nickname ‘Kopenawa’ (hornet) was given to him in recognition of his ability to fight for his people.