Communities – Human Forest

Colombia’s Amazon: Rich in Culture, Scarce in Opportunity

In the remote regions of the Colombian Amazon live some of the most marginalized communities in South America.

Join us in creating real change: breaking isolation and scarcity, supporting Indigenous self-determination, and protecting a cultural heritage deeply rooted in one of the world’s most important ecosystems.

Driving Impact, Transforming Futures

Discover from those who have been impacted by our development programs how they result in long-lasting transformation.

Play

“Human Forest has shown us the value of forests, rivers, and animals, all without changing our traditions. Through this project, we’ve seen many improvements. Every family is now committed.”

“We young people want to make the most of this opportunity. What I learn at university will contribute a lot to the community so that those living in the villages can learn about technology and how it can benefit us.”

“I’m the first in my family to attend university. I want to become a systems engineer, return to my community, support them, and teach them about technology.”

“We now have internet and access to doctors via telemedicine. Medication is no longer a problem. We are making progress.”

“Our communities are working on the first electricity installation. It’s helping us improve our living conditions, something we never had before.”

Rooted in Tradition: Culture, Knowledge, and Everyday Life in the Amazon

Elders, Language & Spirituality

Indigenous peoples are deeply connected with the rainforest and consider themselves as Mother Earth’s children. Their heritage combines rituals, songs, and dances with Christian influences. Our projects help preserve this cultural identity: from ancestral medicine and languages to spiritual leadership and crafts. Elders pass on their knowledge, fostering resilience and continuity.

Handicrafts

Handicrafts reflect the deep bond between culture and nature. Using forest materials like vines, fibers, and clay, men and women create baskets, pottery, tools, and everyday items. These traditions preserve ancestral knowledge and provide income, keeping culture alive through craftmanship.

Food & Sustainable Agriculture

The communities rely on the forest for sustenance, cultivating staple crops like plantains, cassava, maize, and sweet potatoes while adhering to sustainable practices to prevent deforestation. Fishing and hunting remain essential food sources, deeply tied to cultural practices.

Family

Family life follows traditional roles. Women preserve language and crafts while men handle farming, fishing, and hunting, providing both sustenance and cultural continuity.

Before and After: What Our Projects Make Possible

Without Grateful Planet

With Grateful Planet

Community Cash Grant ensures families meet basic needs - hunger eradicated
15 development programs significantly improve social, economic, and environmental practices and standards
Income-generating projects (like village shops) create long-term livelihoods
University education & vocational training empower indigenous youth for leadership & employment

Reduce Emissions and Drive Change

Protecting forests and biodiversity is not the end goal but the first step toward more profound transformation. Our projects create long-term benefits for Indigenous communities by strengthening economies, building infrastructure, and unlocking opportunity.