Dorcas grew up in Kenya, where her father instilled in her the value of planting trees—his farm was full of trees and coffee plants. Dorcas also recalls the generational stories that were passed along: they once had forests full of trees that have now been cut down. These stories sparked a deeper appreciation for nature within her. While she once overlooked tree-cutting on farms, believing it would bring other benefits, Dorcas's perspective shifted over time.

With eye-opening studies in marine science management, Dorcas founded the Mazingira Pamoja Initiative, dedicated to empowering women and girls. Among its projects, the initiative focuses on restoring mangroves on Funzi Island.

What are Dorcas's experiences in planting mangroves with local communities, and why does she view forest ecosystems as essential?

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Connect with Rūta: https://www.instagram.com/dorcaswakio/

Support the Mozengida Pamoje Initiative: https://www.instagram.com/mazingirapamoja/

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Rūta's upbringing was enriched by her mother's presence and the wisdom of her grandmother, a passionate geologist deeply connected to the natural world and its spiritual essence.

When her grandmother faced a grave illness, Rūta found herself pondering: “If we were able to present the diagnosis with a very different approach, how would people heal?” This question ignited her journey into psychology, intertwined with her understanding of biology.

As a dedicated researcher, writer, and facilitator of multi-species imagination, Rūta immersed herself in interpreting the human psyche through the lens of nature. Exploring the innate mechanisms of regeneration and embracing co-creation with the natural world, she sought to unravel the mysteries of the psyche and promote healing.

What symbolism does the forest hold? And what profound insights does nature offer about ourselves?

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Connect with Rūta: https://www.instagram.com/r_u__ta/

Read Rūta's articles: https://rutazem.substack.com/

Sympoiesis: https://www.instagram.com/sympoiesis.world/

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Ana was raised in Venezuela with her family, who had been cattle farmers for generations. They, from whom she inherited Indigenous ancestry, maintained a deep connection to the land.

However, due to increased governmental pressure, she was compelled to leave with her parents for Canada, thus becoming separated from her family, homeland, and culture.

Growing up far from her ancestors' lands, Ana found solace through meaningful encounters and the nature around her. By exploring the forest whenever possible, observing her surroundings, foraging, and learning the names of the trees, she cultivated a sense of belonging to her new environment. Embracing her Indigeneity, Ana's worldview evolved.

How did she forge this profound bond with the forest, and what experiences did she encounter there? Follow Ana's journey as a forager, activist, and influencer.

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Connect with Ana: https://www.instagram.com/ana.inthewild/

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