Teresa Pereira

 

Leadership in Greater Manchester Food Sovereignty project 

Teresa Pereira stands as a seasoned practitioner in the realm of permaculture design and ecological sustainability. Her role in the Greater Manchester Food Sovereignty project highlights her adeptness in leading the founding group towards a coherent vision and set of values. Teresa's guidance has been pivotal in defining the project's scope, objectives, and key priorities, employing the innovative Dragon Dreaming facilitation method.

Teresa's journey in permaculture encompasses a broad spectrum of projects. Her work ranges from land-based initiatives to community-centric and social ventures, as well as initiatives to connect people to nature in holistic ways to foster a deep sense of wellness and an innate awareness of the interconnected and interdependent nature of all life on Earth. This versatility underscores her deep understanding and practical application of permaculture principles in varied contexts.

Since 2003, Teresa's proficiency in biodynamic and organic gardening has flourished, leading her to establish a pioneering ecological gardens design consultancy. Teresa's designs prioritise biodiversity, mirroring native ecosystems. Her gardens serve multiple purposes: they are havens for wildlife, sources of edible and medicinal plants, and tranquil retreats for people. This multifaceted approach demonstrates her commitment to merging traditional landscaping and horticulture with resilient ecological garden practices. Her collaborations span schools, community groups, NGOs, and private clients.

In her multifaceted roles at the Northern School of Permaculture over the last 10 years - Events Coordinator, Lead Teacher, and Learning and Education Development Manager - Teresa has curated several educational programmes. These include the Ecological Gardening Essential Training Programme, Urban Gardening and Practical Permaculture Skills, and the Ecological Gardens Design Course. These programmes are a clear reflection of Teresa's skill in designing education initiatives that integrate her passion for environmental advocacy and education with active community involvement in the co-creation of resilient 'eco-gardenscapes' in urban, suburban and rural settings.

Teresa Pereira’s involvement in the Greater Manchester Food Sovereignty project is a blend of her consultancy acumen, her profound knowledge of ecological design, and her innate ability to engage and educate communities. Her role is pivotal in steering communities towards a future that is regenerative and interconnected, echoing her commitment to sustainable development, environmental advocacy, resilient communities and ecological harmony.