HOLISTIC - A call to heal

Shekinah Marietta Yammacoona, is the founder of ‘Gateway to Freedom Within Inc’

“I am a survivor of childhood abuse. I’ve walked the long, painful road of trauma and the self-destructive choices that can follow it. Life hasn’t been gentle with me, but I refused to let that darkness define or break me.

“Through deep inner work, I transformed my pain into purpose. My journey has taken me from victim to warrior.

“I fought hard to understand why I kept attracting emotionally unavailable or abusive relationships. When I found those answers, I committed to healing. And once I saw what was truly possible, I knew I had to help others do the same.

“My healing journey opened doors: to learning how to trust, set boundaries, and build meaningful connections and community. Along the way, I discovered the key wasn’t just emotional support, but also learning how to work with the brain by retraining neural pathways shaped by trauma. That was the breakthrough and what changed everything.”

In 2022, Shekinah brought her vision to life and launched ’Gateway To Freedom Within Inc’ a charity created to empower and transform survivors of child abuse to reclaim their voice, reconnect to themselves, and rebuild their lives.

The mission is clear: to offer a practical brain-based, body-aware approach to healing trauma and transform their life.

“My vision is bigger than me,” Shekinah says, “it needs a community, and so we are calling on like-minded individuals to join us. Whether you’ve walked this road yourself or simply believe in a better way forward, your presence matters. Your energy, skills, and support helps this vision grow.

“Right now, we’re running a peer support group in Sippy Downs for women who’ve experienced childhood sexual abuse and are seeking connection, guidance and healing. We meet on the first Saturday of every month at 2pm. This is just the beginning.

“If this speaks to you, whether you want to get involved, offer support, or simply learn more, I invite you to connect with us.”

Visit gatewaytofreedomwithin.org