Permaculture is part of a broad change in modern society, not 'just' an ecological movement.

Being part of the Living-Change program was a great pleasure and big learning step, both with theoretical insight on how nature works best, as well on a personal level; asking myself the question of how I want to engage in a more natural lifestyle. I now see permaculture not just as part of an ecological movement, but as part of a broad change of modern society. Maybe I needed to dive into this isolated world of wilderness that the Living-Change location offers to look closely at the patterns and beauty of nature. I feel very thankful for this learning experience in such a breathtaking place surrounded by the magnificent Andes (and you can even enjoy the view from the outdoor compost toilet!). This course offered me practical tools for working in the direction of creating healthy and social environments, and I would really recommend it to any city-dweller.

Good dinners, meaningful conversations around the fireplace, and the playfulness of the group have made these two weeks also a homely time with people that I would choose to hang out with.

Now back to my urban life, I'm very excited to join local projects like community gardening and sharing circles. I personally see big opportunities for systemic change in educational transformation. Bringing together natural spaces and everyone's creativity and artistic expression is what I am seeking.

Eventually a local festival provided a great opportunity for me to continue exploring this. In Vienna we celebrated the Alternatiba Festival of Alternatives for Good Living. Innovative ideas (such as food co-ops, community gardens, repair-cafés, renewable energies, sharing-networks, and natural cosmetics, amongst other things) show that it's not just about climate change, but the huge potential in new living forms.

I'm very thankful for the backpack of new ideas that the Living-Change program and group have given me, and wishing you all the best,

Maria