The Gem of Puebla, Mexico
Arturo Ortega Vela, Director en Enlaces comunitarios Internacionales, A.C, (NGO director of international community link), casually poses before their eco-friendly and eco-efficient hobbit-like building.
Anyone who crosses path with Arturo knows they’re standing in the presence of a charismatic, visionary, extraordinary leader. For the past 20 years, Arturo and his family has committed to community development rooted in social justice, sustainability and agroecology education. Even years before, he has ample experience working with international communities—providing vital and significant link between his communities and those interested in getting to know the people, the land and the resources at the local, national and international level.
Located San Jerónimo Tecuanipan, Puebla, Mexico, Arturo invested in a vast plot of land staring right at the monumental volcano fondly known as Popo, as it constantly reminds surrounding communities the power of nature every day. It’s in this environment Arturo and his family, along with countless volunteers, built The Center—the hub connecting local families with outside volunteer groups. The Center provides after-school programs for local families and opportunities for international students to learn and work on sustainable and agro-ecology projects.
When I led a group of local university students to visit Puebla, Arturo welcomed us with open arms. He connected us to stay with our host families, showed us his community, and engaged us with their work progress at The Center. Arturo’s generosity and sharing of his wisdom and vision, inspires us to go back to our respective community to extend the good work.
For more—visit https://ecimx.org/
“There are no foreign lands. It is the traveler only who is foreign.”
