The Good People of the World: Part 1

We are back to consistent internet that allows us to upload photos to our blog! So please continue to check in for more frequent posts about our journey to South Africa!

This update is part 1 of a multi-part series that speaks about the amazing people we met at the Living Lakes and Wildlands 2016 Sustainability Leadership Journey. Participants came from all around the world to learn from and to teach each other. We had a phenomenal group of people so please keep in mind that these photos and write-ups do none of these change makers justice.

Meet Felipe Meaning of name: horse lover Country of residence: Columbia

I don't think any of us have ever met a more passionate inspiring individual. Felipe works with Fundacion Humedales, a non-for profit operating in Columbia. Through his work he helps implement sustainable, environmentally friendly alternatives to water treatment in rural villages. To read more about the amazing work that Felipe does, check out his organizations website here. Felipe left all of us feeling inspired to enjoy every day, to live our lives to the fullest and let ourselves feel rewarded for the hard work we all do.

Meet Caloy Meaning of name: Caloy is a nickname for Jose, which is a biblical name with various meanings.

Country of residence: Philippines

Caloy gets two photos because you can't really sum him up without seeing him in action doing what he loves and is exceptional at! The photo below shows him in his best shirt, which reads; "Keep Calm and Conserve Wetlands". Caloy has a beautiful calm demeanor, he loves working with youth, he has a very sweet way of talking about his family and is graciously thoughtful before diving into a conversation. Caloy works with the Society of Conservation of Philippine Wetlands, Inc. where he focuses on environmental protection and raising awareness through youth. Caloy struck us as the type of individual you would really want to have on your team to instill creativity and passion.

Meet Maren

Meaning of name: Living by the sea Country of residence: Australia

Maren is the kind of person who you can't help but feel lucky to be around. She had a beautiful youthful personality and was always there to learn and listen. Back home Maren works for Green Skills Inc, where she has worked on wetland restoration and ecosystem linkage projects. Although we never met Maren's son, we could all tell she is a great mother, her big heart filled her with kind words for everyone in our group. The Sustainable Leadership Journey would not have been the same without her.

Meet Carolina Meaning of name: Strong Country of residence: Germany

Carolina grew up on a small organic banana plantation on the Canary Islands. Her life and personality seem to have been filled with environmental concern. She now works with the Lake Constance Foundation where works on sustainability issues and biodiversity protection around agriculture. Carolina was quiet in our big group but when you sat down with her on your own she came alive with passion and enthusiasm for the work we were all doing. At her young age, she has a very promising future ahead of her.

Meet Gerard Meaning of Name: roman saint Country of residence: Burundi

Gerard is one of the most genuine people you could meet. He was also the best dressed in our group. He had a huge smile on his face all the time and was always there to have a friendly conversation with you. Gerard works with Tree Plantation and Introduction of Improved Cooking Stoves. In this organization he works doing afforestation. Gerard was at the leadership journey to learn from us all but he also had so much insight to offer us. We learned about his beautiful country and the kind people that inhabit it.