Editor’s Note: A former PRI Australia intern shares exciting news of efforts she has been successfully engaged in since her stay at Zaytuna Farm. Well done Amber!
A U.S.-based non-profit, Resilient Futures International, recently travelled to the beautiful island of Aruba to participate in the country’s first Permaculture Fair, which took place between April 10-20, 2011. Over the course of a week, RFI presented the permaculture concept and methods to around 700 participants from various sectors of Aruban society, including but not limited to businesses, the tourism industry, and local NGOs.
Notable audiences also included several groups of farmers, young adults, and inmates at the correctional facility. 
The week culminated with a very successful open day at Santa Rosa (the Department of Agriculture), where thousands of people witnessed Minister Oduber (who is in charge of the Ministry of Tourism, Transport, Labor as well as the Ministry of Agriculture) and Resilient Futures International sign a Memorandum of Understanding, outlining Aruba’s official committment to sustainability through the utilization of Permaculture Strategies and RFI’s committment to support the country of Aruba in its efforts. RFI looks foward to a long and beneficial relationship with the country of Aruba.
RFI would like to thank Aruba’s Department of Agriculture for inviting us to participate in this groundbreaking event and Urvin Leest from Fundacion Aruba Consciente for his tireless work in making this happen.
Check out our website at www.resilient-futures-international.org for additional information about RFI. Also, please visit our page on Facebook and click on the "Like" Button to stay up to date on future international permaculture projects!!
Never thought that after years of visiting this site on a daily basis, I would see myself on it. :)
This was indeed a one heck of an experience, secret for having achieved this was patience.
Saludo for di Aruba,
Urvin
Well done guys, this is fantastic news. We need more of such initiatives worldwide. I have been reading the Cuban success story in becoming food sufficient. It has taken them a good 20 years but they are so well prepared vis-a-vis food security and peak oil. All the best for the future.
go girl
In Aruba we are very proud of Urvin for its influence to work for a sustainable future. Also many thanks for Mrs. Bacca for the wonderful presentations.
Regards,
Elthon
Good luck Amber x
Well done Amber the event and the publicity were great – what a lucky country
very proud of you amber!!!
doing such great work!