With global catastrophes multiplying, our sense of belonging is under threat like never before. In an era marked by polarizing discourses, the rise of far-right movements, global armed conflicts, climate collapse and a cascading series of crises, "Patchwork of Belonging" emerges as a vital exploration of what it means to find new - and rediscover old - ways to belong and find connection, in these trying times. This podcast weaves together a rich tapestry of stories, blending sound documentary and fiction styles, interwoven with evocative field recordings and poetic storytelling. Our environmental and social crises are so entangled that no single solution will suffice, and no one person can set things right alone. Through a collection of narratives from diverse voices from around the world, we delve into the personal and collective journeys of individuals navigating their sense of belonging in tumultuous times. From grassroots activists to community organizers, from climate crisis refugees to indigenous peoples reclaiming their heritage, from artists to farmers, each episode illuminates the struggles and triumphs of those fighting for a place to call home. "Patchwork of Belonging" is a testament to the power of interconnected stories and the necessity of solidarity in the face of fragmentation. And it is also a radical act of storytelling, challenging the divisive forces that seek to fragment our societies. It is a space where voices marginalized by mainstream narratives find resonance and power. Each story is a thread in a larger fabric, illustrating how connection to land, culture, and community can be a source of resilience and resistance. In the face of growing inequality, environmental degradation, and social injustice, this podcast underscores the necessity of solidarity and mutual understanding. Join us as we marry local action and knowledge with global innovation, to restore our sense of belonging, enhance livelihoods, and promote diversity. We envision a world where regenerative alternatives blossom, thrive, and connect, reversing the destructive status quo and offering new ways of being in relationship with our planet and each other. "Patchwork of Belonging" invites you to listen, learn, and weave together a more inclusive and compassionate world.
Join us as we embark on a rich journey into the heart of Tharakan culture with Simon Mitambo, an Earth Jurisprudence Practitioner, member of our Global Environments Network (GEN) and co-founder of the Society for Alternative Learning and Transformation (SALT). Simon, a proud Tharakan man and ancestral wisdom expert, has dedicated his life to restoring the cultural and ecological resilience of his community. In this episode, recorded at the Bantu Mountain Lodge during the Global Tapestry of Alternatives General Assembly, Simon takes us through the remarkable landscape of his ancestral land, nestled in the foothills of Mount Kenya. His community of Tharaka, with its rich red soil and abundance, continues to flourish through the revival of cultural practices, eco-cultural mapping, and deep-rooted community dialogues. Simon describes how his community’s knowledge of local medicinal plants and traditional practices sustained them through the challenges of COVID-19. In the podcast, you'll also hear the warm and unforgettable welcome we received from Simon's community, in the form of exciting songs and dances & a nourishing millet porridge served in carved calabashes. Simon’s voice brings to life the resilience, wisdom, and generosity that are foundational to Tharakan culture. His dedication to nurturing these practices is an inspiring testament to the power of ancestral knowledge. Tune in for an episode that weaves together stories of land stewardship, cultural memory, and the undeniable force of community. ____________________ Links to the different organisations mentioned in the episode: https://viacampesina.org/en/ https://gaiafoundation.org/kenya-decolonisation-climate-change-and-earth-jurisprudence/ https://globaltapestryofalternatives.org/
12/23/24 • 34:03
Tune into this week’s episode as we dive into the heart of seed sovereignty and indigenous resilience with Talaa, also known as Milka Chepkorir Kuto. Talaa and her sisters, based near Kitale in Kenya, are working on an inspiring project to revive native seed varieties and establish community-driven plant nurseries—a beautiful act of resistance against the corporate grip on Kenya’s seed market. Milka’s home, surrounded by lush palms and papayas, feels like a sanctuary. But the reality she shares is far from idyllic: over 80% of Kenya’s maize seeds come from the Kenyan Seed Company, a major GM player that has overtaken traditional farming practices. In our conversation, Talaa reflects on this struggle and the impact of what activist Leonida Odongo calls a “new colonization” through agricultural control and technology. Talaa’s words, grounded in her community’s fight for seed sovereignty, underscore a powerful truth: reclaiming indigenous practices is an act of defiance and hope. As you listen, you’ll meet Milka’s sisters and hear their voices as they share their vision for a sustainable, resilient future. This episode is a testament to the power of community, sisterhood, and the deep roots of cultural identity in the face of adversity. Tune in for an uplifting journey into food sovereignty and the enduring spirit of indigenous knowledge.
11/20/24 • 46:30
Watch the full subtitled episode with a visual creation here f7f178f79e224e58e9f1a48c485e905fIn this powerful inaugural episode of our new series "The Patchwork of Belonging", we journey through Morocco’s Al Haouz region, where communities are still grappling with the devastating impacts of the 2023 earthquake that struck the region, cause unfathomable damage. This catastrophe has left a once-marginalized region even more exposed to vulnerability. Life in the Orchards offers a moving glimpse into the lives of those processing unimaginable loss. Through heartfelt testimonies, this episode captures the deep connection people hold with their ancestral lands—a bond that remains unbroken despite losing homes, livestock, crops, and even loved ones. It is a story of resilience and love for a land that has given so much and taken so much in return. Join us as we listen to these voices, bearing witness to the intimate, layered and complex relationship between people and the landscapes they inhabit, one that transcends the material and delves into the spiritual and cultural roots of place.
11/13/24 • 42:09
Join us for a captivating conversation with Mihir Shirman, a passionate researcher and advocate delving into the intersections of fear, polarization, and social movements. With his expertise in topics such as race, anti-racism, activism, and political subjectivity, Mihir sheds light on the profound impact of fear in our society. In this exciting podcast, Mihir shares his research work conducted in St. Louis, specifically documenting the Ferguson uprising. Interspersed throughout are immersive soundscapes from the streets, capturing the raw energy of the uprising - the echoes of people screaming, shouting, and demanding justice.. With a critical lens rooted in medical anthropology, environmentalism, and economic anthropology, Mihir unravels the complex relationship between fear and the polarization of communities. Through insightful analysis, Mihir unveils the ways fear shapes social movements and influences political dynamics. By exploring the transformative potential of addressing fear and polarization, he provides valuable perspectives on fostering empathy, understanding, and unity in the face of societal challenges.
9/18/23 • 31:43
Immerse yourself in a captivating journey of healing and transformation with our newly enhanced podcast. Building upon the profound exploration of fear, we now present an expanded edition that incorporates soothing healing sounds, ambient music, therapeutic guided meditations, and other flowing forms of energetic sounds and music. In this unique edition, we delve deeper into the mysteries of fear and its profound impact on our bodies and minds. Through insightful conversations with remarkable individuals who are conquering their own fears, we uncover intimate insights and practical strategies for overcoming fear. Embark on a transformative journey guided by the wisdom of Karen Larbi, a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion; Nessie Reid, a farmer and co-director of the Global Diversity Foundation; and Sulaiman R. Khan, a visionary and active disability rights advocate. Discover how fear, when harnessed, can serve as a catalyst for personal growth, unity, and the empowerment of ourselves and others. As we navigate these conversations, we skillfully integrate healing sounds, ambient music, and therapeutic elements to create a seamless tapestry of uplifting and nourishing experiences. Allow the gentle guidance of our expert hosts, led by Simran Rawan, Communication & Membership Coordinator at Global Diversity Foundation, to lead you on an enlightening exploration of fear and its transformative potential. Tune in to this enhanced edition of our podcast and let the healing sounds and soothing music envelop you on this profound journey.
8/31/23 • 30:25
Simran grew up in Delhi, but her grandparents migrated from Pakistan during Partition. Samirah grew up in Lahore, twin city to Delhi, and her grandparents migrated from India during Partition. In this powerful & poignant dialogue, they confront the deep-rooted fear and hatred that persists between India & Pakistan, even 75 years after Partition. Both Simran and Samirah find themselves unable to easily reconnect with their ancestral lands due to the prevailing tensions and animosity. India, once celebrated as "the world's largest democracy," has seen a shift towards a far-right agenda, bent on marginalizing Muslims and erasing their presence. Meanwhile, religious minorities in Pakistan face the brutal reality of systemic violence, with alarming instances of lynchings targeting Ahmadi Muslims, Christians, Hazaras, Balochis, and other marginalized communities.Together, Simran and Samirah explore the complex dynamics that hinder peace, understanding, and reconciliation between India and Pakistan. They shed light on the urgent need to confront these issues and work towards a future where religious and ethnic differences are celebrated rather than weaponized. Join us for an eye-opening conversation that challenges stereotypes, seeks common ground, and offers hope for a more inclusive and harmonious world.This podcast is part of the 'Transforming Fear' series, which delves deep into the human psyche, exploring the roots of fear and its impact on our lives both as individuals and communities. ---------- 💡 Episode corrigendum/clarification - Gujarat riots happened in 2002, not in the late 90s as mentioned at 32'.- Adnan Sami had a Pakistani father & Indian mother. He had a Pakistani passport until 2015 and has an Indian passport as of 2016.
7/18/23 • 42:14
In this captivating talk, we shed the light on the profound nature of fear and its presence within our bodies. How does fear manifest physically? And more importantly, how can we triumph over our fears, transforming them into powerful allies and friends? Join us as we explore these questions and more. Through insightful conversations with individuals who have conquered their own fears, we uncover intimate insights and practical strategies for overcoming fear. We also explore the transformative potential of fear as a protector, steering clear of its negative descent into hate, division, and polarity. Join us on this transformative journey, guided by speakers like Karen Larbi, a diversity and inclusion advocate, Nessie Reid, a farmer and co-director of Global Diversity Foundation, and the visionary Sulaiman R. Khan, a creative and active disability rights advocate. Discover how fear can be harnessed as a catalyst for personal growth, unity, and the empowerment of ourselves and others. Elegantly facilitating these conversations is Simran Rawan, the Communication & Membership Coordinator at Global Diversity Foundation. Simran's knack for delving into serious topics while infusing them with light-heartedness and witty humour sets the stage for an engaging and enlightening exploration of fear's impact on our lives. This podcast is part of the 'Transforming Fear' series, which delves deep into the human psyche, exploring the roots of fear and its impact on our lives both as individuals and communities.
6/26/23 • 39:13
In this captivating new episode, we embark on a journey in the world of green finance and so called Nature Based Solutions, with Frederic Hache, co-founder of the Green Finance Observatory and a remarkably talented cartoonist. Frederic debunks the prevailing discourse surrounding environmental markets, nature-based solutions, and biodiversity and carbon offsetting. Through his well-researched expert insights, he reveals how these strategies, often hailed as saviors of the environment, are inadvertently fueling the destruction of nature rather than its conservation. As Frederic shares his perspective, listeners are invited to question the status quo and explore the unintended consequences of weak climate policies.This thought-provoking interview serves as a wake-up call, urging us to reassess our governments' approaches to sustainability and to advocate for truly effective solutions that address the urgent challenges facing our planet.
6/1/23 • 38:00
The landscapes of the Moroccan High Atlas have been shaped by close relationships between humans and natural environments for millennia. These cultural landscapes are maintained by the traditional practices of the Amazigh indigenous peoples who manage them. These practices support a regional biodiversity hotspot and ensure social and ecological resilience. In our second episode, we do a deep dive into the Global Diversity Foundation’s work to preserve the cultural landscapes of the High Atlas Mountains. In the process, we discuss innovative actions to build a progressive national policy environment for cultural landscape maintenance, and strengthen governance systems that protect cultural landscapes. Join us for a serious discussion interspersed with a lot of sweet moments, silliness and smiles as we sit down with Tasnim and Hafida who share the intimate motives that encourage them to pursue the work they do. They also delve into intricate identity questions relating to the underlying Amazigh heritage shared by Moroccans. Tasnim Elboute joined our team in Spring 2021 as a policy consultant. She graduated from Yale University with a Bachelor’s in Environmental Studies in 2017. She has been based in Morocco since then, researching gender, agriculture, and food systems. After working in international education and development, she pursued a Master’s in Anthropology & Development at SOAS, University of London. Hafida Mazoud, a Chevening scholar, joined us in May 2021, after completing a master’s degree in Food Science and Innovation at Manchester Metropolitan University. Hafida’s present work with GDF supports rural entrepreneurs and cooperatives increasing their viability and transitioning to more sustainable business models.
5/9/23 • 29:53
Tune in to the first episode of our podcast series “Seeding Stories for Change”, as we explore the unique opportunities and dynamism of co-directorship. Join us in discussing our non-hierarchical approach to leadership which is based on nurturing and mentoring team members. We also dive into the core values that guide our organization, including diversity, equity, and inclusion, and how they inform the way we lead and collaborate. As our two co-directors Emily and Nessie share their experiences and insights, we hope their free flowing conversation inspires and empowers others to break down barriers and lead with not just purpose but also a people driven approach.
4/13/23 • 25:16
