Developing a deep relationship with the living beings 

Deep ecology is a powerful tool to feel the connections between us and the rest of life on earth. Its philosophy is based on the intrinsic value of every living being and the need of meaningfulness beyond economic valuation. From the recognition to the acceptance of the magnitude of the human-nature links, deep ecology is a journey toward gratitude and action.

« We abuse land because we regard it as a commodity belonging to us. When we see land as a community to which we belong, we may begin to use it with love and respect ».

- Aldo Leopold

In a world full of uncertainty, knowing how to untangle the complexity due to economic, environmental and social events helps focus on what can be essential. This module explores the human-nature interactions from a systems thinking perspective in order to fuel our capacity of adaptation and decision. 

Reappropriation of indigenous knowledge that made humans « custodians of the earth » is a strong step to create a peaceful environment for sustainable futures. This module intends to explore African indigenous ecology as a resource for today’s challenges.

Communication is an empowering medium for both the communicator and their audience. The stories that we tell shape the world. This module focuses on how to link one’s story into those that foster wellbeing, collaboration, and co-creation. Using storytelling as a base, participants will begin to design their brand story, identity and material.

Accessing funding, finding partnerships and writing proposals

A combination of topics is covered to prepare participants for developing business models that speak to biodiversity and pro-nature innovation, and subsequently where to access finance and develop sustainable finance models. The course therefore also covers what is required to source and access appropriate funding in the sector aims to help participants see opportunities for collaborative partnerships.

This module aims to generate a meaningful understanding of the interconnectedness to the web of life, thus connecting all beings, allowing a renewed sense of connectedness, consciousness, identity, and responsibility. To also unlock a better understanding of the interconnectivity between ourselves, our ancestors and nature, and to remind the participants of indigenous/traditional wisdom in approaching environmental problems.

With all the knowledge previously generated through Biodiversity Challenges, Indigenous Knowledge, Systems Thinking and Deep Ecology, the Design sprint is crucial to turn the reflection into action. The Business Sprint is a transformative step for project holders to refine, confront, and unpack their ideas, so as to increase their projects’ concrete impacts. 

Being a founder does not automatically translate into being a leader. It is therefore necessary to equip leaders of start-ups (business and projects) with the tools for effective leadership and team building. The session uses an ontological and neuroscience approach speaking to the participants way of being, interpreting and participating in life and exploring the dynamics of the social brain in teams. The module helps the participants to think about the story they carry about what it means to lead, how to embody leadership, and how to manage emotions and moods in leadership.

Entrepreneurship is about learning, pivoting and failing up. As entrepreneurship is an iterative process, the participants will gain the understanding that all outputs need to continually be worked on as they launch, learn and grow – there are no final products. Entrepreneurship is a contact sport.