Participant Introduction – Zimik(India)

“In spite of all differences, one of my primary roles is to uphold the oneness and the belongingness of every member of our Rajeshwari Karuna school community.” Zimik Tamreichan has a dual role at Rajeshwari Karuna School, a residential school in Tuli, Nagaland, India.  He is the Chaplain cum Counselor for students and staff and the manager of the school farm. His school is a “mixed community” with diverse ages, cultures, and dialects. They are hardworking, and everyone supports each other. Zimik takes pride in the ways he can provide … Read more

Participant Introduction – Mithun(Bangladesh)

“Observing their struggle up close has strengthened my resolve to see the joyous smiles of those in need and a society free from poverty.” Kaligram village hosts Hindus and Christians that farm and live together harmoniously. Dependent on farming and fishing, all ages and genders work together to make the most of what they have. Family and spirituality are essential. The people seek knowledge of sustainable farming practices to improve food security for future generations.  Mithun’s profession entails conceiving and executing agricultural work plans, plus training village farmers to improve … Read more

Participant Introduction – Pierre

“An effective leader is one who not only possesses the ability to lead but also understands and responds to the needs of the community, all while maintaining a humble and unobtrusive presence.”  Pierre is a resident of the mountainous Hinche region in Haiti. He recognizes the importance of effective communication and respect for others as fundamental qualities. Despite the challenging circumstances in his community, which relies heavily on rainfall for livelihoods, residents engage in sugarcane syrup production, vegetable cultivation, and livestock rearing activities. Despite differences in religious beliefs, Pierre demonstrates … Read more

Participant Introduction – Meidinlung

“It is necessary to build a self-reliant community and self-sustainable farm produce to commercial practices. Thus, a valuable and committed service is needed for our community to build a sustainable and independent community”. Gangmei Meidinlung’s community is called Zeliangrong, which is a mix of 4 tribes, namely Zemei, Liangmei, Inpuimei, and Rongmei. Their modes of livelihood are agriculture, horticulture, and other farming activities. The main strength of the community is unity. However, one challenge is that their community is not self-sustaining and largely depends on imported products. Through ARI, Gangmei … Read more

Participant Introduction – Ben (Cameroon)

“Coming from a poor background, I understand what it means to be needy and not have the means to make ends meet. What motivates me more to work for the service of my community is the desire to change the mindsets and improve the livelihoods of my community members.” Veranso Benjamen Litika is a field worker from Cameroon. His community is in the Northwest Region of Cameroon and consists mainly of farmers who practice crop production or livestock rearing as their livelihood. In 2015 he joined the Rural Transformation Center. … Read more

Participant Introduction – Joselin (Ecuador)

“A good leader always motivates the group by investing time in the growth of others, has the communication ability to delegate tasks and give constructive criticism, all this with respect both in the physical aspect, thoughts and actions of the person.” Joselin Carolina Coyago Tallana resides near Cayambe, Ecuador, and works with rural communities. Dairy cattle and green onions are the primary sources of income. Unfortunately, due to the emphasis on rose exports, crop production has declined, and low pay and limited educational opportunities remain prevalent issues.  While her region … Read more

Participant Introduction -Claris (Cameroon)

“Coming from a typical agricultural community characterized by poverty, single motherhood, and gender discrimination and having been raised by a single mum, I noticed and went through many challenges and problems with the worst cases faced by women. This alone motivated me to undertake a course in development studies, so I could contribute through my voice and action to breaching this gap in my community.” Claris is a Field Monitor who provides administrative support. Her primary responsibilities include the preparation of financial requests for the organization. In addition, she also … Read more