Dear people,

I am asking for your help. Our food systems are in crisis. For the past years I have been learning about these crises and how interwoven they are. In the bananas we eat and the coffee we drink, an entire system of exploitation and brutal theft is hidden. The burning of the Amazon rainforest, gender violence, pollution of protected natural areas, landgrabbing, severe violation of the rights of indigenous communities and safe drinking water which is turned into a luxury item are only some of the countless injustices in the chain connecting farmer to fork. Calls for change are usually dominated by either nature conservation ('let's put a fence around the rainforest and nobody can touch it') or by the economic narrative of development ('we need big agribusiness in order to make more money').

I think there is a middle way.

Before I will start my Masters in Wageningen University next fall, I want to explore a promising wave of social activism unrolling itself in Latin America: agro-ecological commons. These are agricultural communities who collectively produce food on their own terms, using expertise and knowledge of their territories. They refuse to participate in the system of exploitation and are making a new narrative.

I will travel to the land of blue corn and avocado wars (Mexico), work at permaculture farms on the country with 6% of Earth's biodiversity (Costa Rica) and visit one of largest urban organic agriculture projects on the planet (Cuba). My purpose is to actively listen. Listening is something people on our part of the planet do not do often enough, if you ask me. Who pays the price for our cheap chocolate? Someone on the other side of the planet. I aim to begin to understand their realities, and listen to them.

Ironically, fighting as I am against the system of commodities - I am asking for a financial contribution from you. I need to get vaccinations, a backpack, transportation and decent shoes. Any contribution is very much appreciated. Consider this to be my graduation gift. It would mean a lot to me. 

During my travels I aim to upload a weekly podcast and/or blog about my encounters and insights. If you are interested in receiving those, please let me know via [email protected]

Much love and thanks!

Anna