In Yoruba language iyami literally means ‘my mother’. In Yoruba traditional belief, mother’s roles as the vehicle for recreation and the sustainer of life elevates her to the realm of the divinity. Consequently, iyami – with alterations in tones – becomes iyaami or iyami, which can be translated as ‘The super-powerful mothers’ or ‘my awesome mother’.
Aje is a Yoruba word that denotes the biological and spiritual powers of African women that can be put to use in a great number of ways. Such ways include but not limited to powers of elemental, biological and artistic creation, healing, destruction, spiritual and physical development and fortification, political organization and empowerment.