South America to me, represents a continent of hope in the face of adversity... Despite containing some of the most impoverished people in the world, it has shown time and again how close knit communities, strong indigenous networks and good ol' fashioned hard work can help people overcome adversity. Its environmental terrain boasts some of the world's most ecologically and biologically diverse regions, yet hectares of it are being cut down daily due to government corruption and corporate control. Despite this, countries like Argentina fought back after years of neoliberal economic policies and military juntas to take back their lands, rioted to preserve their rights to clean water and reclaimed abandoned factories and built production networks to feed their families and communities (see Avi Lewis' The Take). I am passionate about learning from and developing liveable communities like Curitiba, Brazil, which is renowned across the world for building transit and pedestrian oriented cities that foster community. Beyond this, I've always felt a strong affinity to latin culture due to its connections and similiarities to my own (I'm half-filipina).

With everyone focusing on China, Africa and India, I want to focus my work on empowering strong community networks to build sustainable economic development models and to preserve their environmental diversity. I estimate that I'll need at least 5000 to spend a year down there doing work, but I'm aiming to raise at least $3000 to get started, to buy a ticket and to start making arrangements to work down there. I'm already learning Spanish and taking courses related to sustainable economic development and urban planning. I feel I have a lot of strong skills to offer and would really love to explore the role that I can play in building a sustainable future for communities in this complex continent.

I hope you'll consider helping me achieve this dream. Suggestions and feedback are also greatly appreciated!
Thank you in advance for your consideration and input.

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