18th Jun 2024 Gemini 1.5 Pro
In this episode of Regeneration Will Be Funded, host Matthew Monahan interviews Ness Radich, a coordinator at The Learning Environment, a community-led organization in Whanganui, New Zealand. Radich emphasizes the organization's commitment to place-based learning, stemming from the belief that reconnecting with nature is crucial for personal and societal transformation.
Radich explains that while many educational experiences offer fleeting moments of inspiration, they often fade upon returning to familiar contexts. Place-based learning, however, fosters an ongoing connection with the land, promoting a deeper and more sustainable form of growth. This approach allows individuals to build lasting relationships with their surroundings, fostering a sense of belonging and responsibility towards the environment.
"And what we wanted to create with this place-based education is that it doesn't end. This is a lifelong journey with land, with place, with the river, with the stream, with the plants. You know, you plant a tree, which is something we do, and you can go back and visit that tree. And it's like, that's about building our connection to place."
The Learning Environment's commitment to place-based learning extends beyond its local community, aiming to inspire similar initiatives globally. Radich believes that by focusing on a specific location, they can create a ripple effect, demonstrating the transformative power of connecting with nature.
The Learning Environment's journey began with a three-year visioning process, a stark contrast to the fast-paced, launch-first mentality often seen in startup culture. Radich underscores the importance of this extended period of reflection, emphasizing the need for slow, intentional growth to achieve meaningful and lasting change.
The team of eight co-founders recognized that true transformation requires more than quick fixes and superficial solutions. They embraced a "go fast, but actually go slow" approach, prioritizing deep listening, relationship-building, and a thorough examination of their values and intentions.
"There's only so far you can go with those short six-week scrums or whatever... There's also relationships, and relationships take time. You're not gonna... You could build a great relationship in six weeks, but it probably won't be as great as a relationship that's 10 years old."
This deliberate and collaborative process allowed the team to develop a shared vision and a strong foundation for their organization, ensuring that their actions were aligned with their values and committed to the long-term well-being of the community and the land.
With eight co-founders, The Learning Environment faced potential challenges related to decision-making and power dynamics. Radich highlights the importance of open communication, active listening, and a willingness to engage in challenging conversations.
"Friendship... And I think this thing around like integrity and intent is coming forth now. Like we're showing up for each other as well as this mission. And that's helped us in times of like, no matter what, we know where we're going. You've got each other's backs. We've got each other's back."
The team established clear processes for decision-making, ensuring that all voices were heard and valued. They prioritize feedback rooted in empathy and a shared desire for collective success. By addressing conflicts directly and cultivating a culture of transparency and respect, The Learning Environment fosters a supportive environment where challenges become opportunities for growth and deeper connection.
Recognizing the interconnectedness of personal and planetary well-being, The Learning Environment incorporates holistic health into every aspect of their work. Radich emphasizes the importance of caring for the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of both individuals and the environment.
The organization promotes embodied practices, encouraging mindful engagement with the land and acknowledging the therapeutic benefits of nature. They prioritize self-care and create space for individuals to honor their needs and limitations, fostering a culture of compassion and support.
"If we're really holding that thread of "If you heal the land, you can heal yourself," I'm sure they're not two separate things, and they can happen together with mindfulness and with presence."
Looking ahead, The Learning Environment envisions establishing a holistic health hub on the land, offering therapy and wellness programs integrated with nature. They aim to create a space where individuals can experience the healing power of the natural world and cultivate a deeper understanding of their own well-being.
Despite the challenges of funding land-based initiatives, The Learning Environment successfully raised a significant sum through crowdfunding to purchase their 70-hectare property. Radich emphasizes that this success stemmed from their commitment to building and nurturing relationships.
Rather than relying solely on social media campaigns or impersonal outreach, they engaged their network of family, friends, and fellow travelers who had witnessed their dedication and commitment to the vision.
"It was really special to not put it on social media that we were doing a crowdfunding campaign. We really kept it personal, and that seemed... to sit well with us of setting that motion forth."
The Learning Environment's commitment to transparency and accountability further strengthened these relationships. They provided detailed information about their plans, demonstrating the rigor and thoughtfulness behind their vision. This approach fostered trust and confidence, inspiring individuals to contribute not just financially, but also through their skills, networks, and ongoing support.
Airtable