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“A strong sense of community fosters a strong desire to improve, individually and collectively.” Jontra has observed that most people in his community engage in agricultural practices involving harmful chemicals, negatively impacting the environment. In his free time, he often meets community members at the local tavern to exchange ideas and has gradually shared his agricultural practices. Jontra spends one and a half hours daily riding his motorcycle between his home and the villages he serves. He is social and has built good relationships with young and older members of … Read more

“In the city, you live for yourself. In the village, you live for others.”  Jakob Siringoringo helps Indigenous Peoples utilize their traditional organic farming practices and achieve legal recognition of their traditional land rights. In addition, he works in communication and community mobilizing for AMAN, a national organization promoting Indigenous Peoples rights in Indonesia. The communities he works with in North Sumatra have unique customs and traditional land inherited from their ancestors. Indigenous Peoples are the source of knowledge regarding farming, gardening, and managing forests. However, unfavorable policies lead to … Read more

“Success is not final; failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” Angela shares about her role model Father Bernadus Palus and her will to press on.  Kajong Village, Angela’s birthplace, is a rural community nestled in the Manggarai district of Indonesia, where the inhabitants lead a life centered around spiritual pursuits. Despite being blessed with abundant natural resources, the village is geographically isolated, and the residents need access to education and reject many new ideas. Therefore, Angela’s mission to promote education and economic growth is … Read more

“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

“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

“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

“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