Cultivating Hope: Seed Sovereignty for a Thriving Planet

Hello, everyone! My name is Randa and I am reaching out to you with an exciting opportunity that I hope you'll consider supporting. I have been selected as a fellow at the Global Environments Summer Academy (GESA) 2024.

It is an honour to have the opportunity to attend this programme organized by the Global Diversity Foundation in conjunction with Oxford's Environmental Change Institute. This academy brings together passionate individuals from diverse backgrounds to address pressing environmental challenges and develop innovative solutions.

My intention:

My goal in being part of this program is to gain skills to strengthen my impact as an environmental and conservation facilitator and to help my community become more resilient and mobilise to adapt to climate change, reclaim agro-ecological practices and steward our landscape.

I will be bringing perspectives from my experience working in regenerative urban agriculture, nurturing seed saving initiatives and working as a nature connection facilitator with global majority communities.

I think that building capacity toward seed sovereignty is extremely important in the face of climate change, social and economic pressures to farmers, and the threats to agrobiodiversity by the many effects of industrial agriculture. A diverse plate mirrors a society that is able to access healthy and diverse food sources, practice cultural foodways, and a thriving ecosystem!

Why GESA?

The Global Environments Summer Academy is a unique opportunity for me to deepen my knowledge, expand my network, and gain hands-on experience in addressing environmental issues on a global scale with local perspectives.

The Global Environments Summer Academy (GESA) is a three-month immersive fellowship for changemakers who are working to find durable solutions to complex planetary challenges. With a blend of online collaboration and 2 week in-person residential engagement GESA promises a holistic and enriching journey from June to August, fostering deep connections and impactful learning experiences.

The program covers a wide range of topics, including climate change, biodiversity conservation, sustainable development, and more. By participating in GESA, I will not only enhance my skills and understanding but also contribute to collective efforts towards a more sustainable future for our planet.

Please see GESA 2024 Brochure organised by the Global Diversity Foundation

More about me:

I am a land worker, seed keeper, independent researcher and community artist. My practice is situated at the confluence of agroecology, food, ritual, healing and community. I am passionate about practices that interrupt notions of individualism, alienation from humans and the more-than-human, and separation from nature to grow towards symbiotic and collaborative futures.

I have recently joined the Seed Sovereignty Programme as one of the regional coordinators, as part of the Gaia Foundation. I have previously been part of many grassroots collectives and land based projects working across urban regenerative farming, revitalising seed saving practices and histories, food & health sovereignty, and environmental education (Misery Medicines, Community Apothecary, The Seed Saving Network, Wolves Lane Centre).

As a writer and photographer, I explore the intricate relationship between people and plants, focusing on intersectional land justice. I celebrate the weaving of connection between culture, landscaoes and ecological practices.

Why I need your support

The full cost of the Academy is £2,500. I have been awarded a bursary for £1,700 but I still need to raise £800 to cover the rest of the fee.

Can you help?

Your contribution, no matter the size, will significantly support my attendance at the Global Environments Summer Academy. Additionally, sharing this campaign with your friends and family would greatly help in spreading the word. Thank you for taking the time to read and consider supporting my participation in GESA 2024. I am profoundly grateful for your generosity and faith in my ability to create positive change!

Thank you!