In order to amplify the voices of our participants from this research project, as well as those of many more community members with whom we have previously collaborated, we have teamed up with a dedicated group of individuals to formally create a sustainable source of support for indigenous communities like Dicaro: a nonprofit organization for social change.

InitialEyes is a nonprofit organization that empowers indigenous storytellers to create opportunities for social change in their own communities. Our mission is three-fold: to promote storytelling as a means through which to create community solidarity, to identify local existential problems, and to establish clear cross-cultural communication; to provide funding for small-scale community development projects conceived and implemented by local partners; and to promote community sovereignty through culturally respectful practice rooted in the consent of local partners.

InitialEyes believes in the wisdom of indigenous peoples and seeks to empower traditionally marginalized communities to preserve their culture and increase sustainable practices surrounding the environment. We envision resilient communities, with autonomy over natural resource management. Residing in some of the most biodiverse regions in the world, their knowledge of tropical forest stewardship and centuries of coexistence will prove crucial to the survival of the human species. Through participatory storytelling workshops, capacity building, and collaborative project development, InitialEyes supports community-led initiatives to strengthen biocultural conservation in the region. We provide technical support, education, and skill development, while incorporating local knowledge and expertise.

To support our team or find out more about what we do, please contact us!