2020 Reflections
Dear Community,
As we reflect upon the vast changes that have occurred in 2020 we are humbled by the clarity, inspiration and deep dedication that has arisen from this potent time; reminding us that our work was made for this moment.
The core mission of IEV has always been to be a part of the regeneration of the planet and humanity through the mentorship of young visionary leaders who are inspired and activated to serve their unique life mission and to build a community of engaged social/environmental leaders that take the “Third Path” that radically honors the deeper calling of their lives in dedication to nature and humanity.
In January we began our 2020 new cohort of young visionary leaders from across the globe representing Mexico, United States, Uganda, South Africa, Philippines, Rwanda and Zimbabwe; each month we meet on-line with this diverse and inspiring group of young leaders; cultivating community and providing curriculum in humanitarian service and visionary leadership.
Due to the support of our community we were able to distribute 2 seed grants to our Visionary Fellows working on community projects in Kenya, Mexico and Guatemala; these funds allow them to start their projects and serve their communities during these times.
Although we were not able to hold our annual Global Visionary Incubator in Hawaii this past summer due to COVID restrictions what we have witnessed bloom in our Visionary Fellows has only deepened our dedication to this revolutionary work. The young people of this world know what they are here to do and it is our responsibility to help steward this generation along the path of service, empathy and regeneration.
Through 2020 we have witnessed our Global Visionary Fellows rise up in their communities in such profound ways; utilizing the teachings and community of the IEV program and bringing it directly back to their towns, villages and countries during these challenging times.
In Kenya our visionary fellows have provided COVID prevention education/PPE to rural communities, planted food forests in order to combat the rising food prices, launched campaigns against gender based violence, provided women’s health education to hundreds of young girls throughout East Africa and have created monthly circles for young people to gather, connect and stay inspired.
In the United States we have witnessed our Visionary Fellows take to the streets in solidarity with Black Lives Matter and be at the forefront of political action through inspiring young people to vote and take a stand for the regenerative future they are here to create. We have also witnessed our Visionary Fellows be a part of food programs to provide food for elders and people who have lost their income in their communities due to the impact of COVID this year.
As for everyone, 2020 has brought its challenges; forcing us to let go of ideas of the future but through this letting go we have been able to be fully present and re-evaluate what matters most and continue to return to the core of our mission.
It is our intention to hold our annual Global Visionary Incubator in August 2021 in Hawaii and continue to cultivate this rising generation of activated human beings; this is our time.
We invite you to partner with us as together we create a new generation of "regenerative" humans that are seeped in the knowing of their unique gift and are here to serve humanity and the planet during these transformative times.
We are forever grateful for the support of our community, family foundations and mentors who continue to value the depth of our work and actively want to be a part of ensuring that it continues and thrives.
In deep gratitude + respect,
Vanessa + Shauna
