AldeaFeliz, nestled in the lush mountains of Colombia, has long been a beacon of ecological regeneration and communal living. In 2023, they proudly celebrated their 18th anniversary—a milestone marking their maturity as a community dedicated to sustainable practices and holistic living. Over these years, AldeaFeliz has blossomed into a global model for regenerative ecovillages, sharing innovative solutions in agroecology, social entrepreneurship, and community governance. But their story is far from over; with their newfound “adulthood” in Colombian society, AldeaFeliz is poised to deepen its impact locally, nationally, and internationally.
Building Food Sovereignty and Strengthening Local Networks
One of the most inspiring initiatives undertaken by AldeaFeliz is their leadership in the “San Miguel Node of Agroecology for Food Sovereignty.” This effort brings together over 25 inhabitants of the San Miguel village to cultivate a community garden on the “El Empiezo” farm. Through this collaborative project, AldeaFeliz has strengthened local food security, regenerating the land with sustainable farming techniques. The garden’s produce is shared among the node’s members and exchanged with three other agroecological nodes in the municipality. This collective endeavor has not only fostered food sovereignty but also revitalized the social fabric of the region, bringing people together through their connection to the land.
The initiative reflects AldeaFeliz’s long-standing commitment to agroecology and its role as a change agent in both local and global contexts. By integrating traditional agricultural knowledge with cutting-edge regenerative practices, AldeaFeliz continues to set an example of how sustainable food systems can flourish when rooted in community.
Learning and Sharing Through “Community Living Classrooms”
AldeaFeliz’s commitment to sharing their knowledge with others shines through their “Community Living Classrooms” (AVC). These participatory workshops are designed to empower local communities with practical skills for ecological regeneration. The first AVC will cover grey water treatment, composting, ecological soap making, and waste management, while also fostering social and economic cohesion through practices like bartering, prosumer markets, and community meals. The second AVC will focus on permaculture and conflict resolution, with local experts from the San Francisco agroecology network (Los Mingueros) and the Solidarity Economy Network “La Tucaneta” contributing their expertise.
By hosting these AVCs, AldeaFeliz aims to strengthen the bonds between neighboring communities and support the transition to regenerative lifestyles. Their leadership role on the Coexistence and Conflict Resolution Committee of the San Miguel Community Action Board (JAC-SM) further underscores their commitment to peace-building and social harmony, introducing tools like Nonviolent Communication to address conflicts and promote self-governance.
Empowering Future Generations
AldeaFeliz’s impact extends to the next generation as well. The Uba Qynza learning community, born within the ecovillage, continues to provide a nurturing environment for children and families. Through home education, word circles, and hands-on permaculture projects, children are taught the principles of regeneration and sustainability from a young age. In 2023, Uba Qynza participated in the “Sprouts for Future” project, a global initiative coordinated by the Global Ecovillage Network (GEN), which funded a permaculture plan for the school. The project included the creation of a recycling station, a rainwater collection system, and a seed bank, further integrating sustainable practices into the fabric of daily life.
In a powerful ceremony, the children of AldeaFeliz, many of whom have lived there for over eight years, were given the right to become Associates of the ecovillage. This recognition symbolizes their transition into community governance, and they made history by presenting their first sociocratic proposal to the general circle—a testament to AldeaFeliz’s commitment to intergenerational leadership and shared decision-making.
Global Impact and Future Aspirations
AldeaFeliz’s influence reaches far beyond their local community. They have been key organizers of the national ecovillage network (CASA Colombia) gatherings, such as the “Llamado de la Montaña,” and are now preparing for the next CASA Latina gathering, ECCO, in Argentina in 2025. Through these events, AldeaFeliz is helping to inspire and connect other ecovillages across Latin America, promoting the principles of interdependence, solidarity, and ecological living on a global scale.
As co-organizers of the virtual Diploma in Ecovillage and Resilient Communities Design, AldeaFeliz continues to educate and inspire through online platforms, extending their reach to individuals and communities worldwide. They also remain deeply involved in local environmental activism, joining the comparsa for the defense of water in the Gualivá region and integrating art into their efforts to protect this precious resource.
Looking Ahead
With the recent recognition of the Hildur Jackson Award, AldeaFeliz is ready to expand its outreach even further. The award serves as a validation of their tireless work in ecological regeneration, social empowerment, and community building. In the coming years, they plan to continue sharing their knowledge through workshops and practical projects, while deepening their involvement in local governance and community-led initiatives.
AldeaFeliz is not just a place—it’s a living example of how sustainable, regenerative living can be woven into the very fabric of society. Their journey over the past 18 years is a testament to what’s possible when people come together with a shared purpose and a commitment to healing the planet and their communities. As they move forward, AldeaFeliz is sure to inspire even more individuals and communities to embrace a new way of living, grounded in resilience, cooperation, and a deep respect for the Earth.
Learn more about their journey and upcoming initiatives on their website and social media platforms, and stay tuned for ways to get involved in their transformative projects!
GEN Staff
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