Beekeeping with Indigenous People in the Amazon

Jorge, pictured here, is one of the youngest Maijuna beekeepers that we are training. What he lacks in age, he and the other boys and girls involved make up with excitement. In fact, they have been so excited to learn about stingless bees and beekeeping that the Maijuna teachers have asked us to incorporate lessons into the school curriculum (see photo below of school lessons), which we have wholeheartedly embraced. However, we aren't only teaching the children about bees, we are also using the opportunity to teach more broadly about the principles of sustainability and the importance of a healthy environment.

Working with Jorge, as well as other children and their families, is part of a long-term commitment that we have made to teaching stingless beekeeping as a tool for sustainable development in Maijuna communities. Things are starting to pay off as Jorge's family now has 3 stingless beehives (see photos below of one of their hives) and big plans for many more in the future. Each stingless beehive, and the honey that they produce, will help to boost the income of Jorge's family which is critical since they currently earn less than $2 per day. Jorge's parents will be able to use this added income to help pay for his school supplies, health care, clothes and other basic necessities that all people deserve. In short, through your generous donations you are helping Jorge and his family create a better future for themselves through stingless beekeeping!

A week-long beekeeping workshop in Jorge’s community costs $1,000 and is only possible because of the support of special individuals like you. We are in it for the long haul with the Maijuna and we hope that you are too! Thanks so much for your continued support and we promise that we will continue to keep you updated as this project progresses!