A vision of a future where rivers run free, farms restore ecosystems, and technology empowers communities sustainably and equitably came vividly to life in Geneva this February. From 15–20 February 2025, Project Biome Global and the SAOSO Foundation brought their bold agenda for ecological and social regeneration to the heart of Europe.
Project Biome Global: Catalysing Regeneration Worldwide
Project Biome Global, a non-profit organisation based in Charlottesville, Virginia, is a global connector and catalyst for frontline initiatives driving climate resilience, food sovereignty, and community empowerment.
With a strong focus on Southern Africa, their mission is being realised through three flagship programmes:
- Biome Constellation – linking regenerative projects into a collaborative global network.
- Solutioning Hive – co-creating solutions to accelerate ecological restoration.
- Biome Fellows – equipping local leaders with tools and networks to maximise impact.
At the heart of their work is a Living Systems approach, designed to align diverse efforts for collective impact and scale regenerative practices that restore balance between people and planet.
Voices of Regeneration: Stella Horgan & Matthew Purkis
The Geneva delegation was led by Stella Horgan, Executive Director of Project Biome Global, a passionate advocate for community-led ecological regeneration. Drawing on her extensive work in rural Mpumalanga, South Africa, she emphasised the vital role of women’s empowerment and grassroots innovation in driving systemic change.
Joining her was Matthew Purkis, representing both Project Biome Global and the SAOSO Foundation, a cornerstone of South Africa’s organic and agroecological movement. Matthew outlined SAOSO’s leadership in:
- Policy advocacy for sustainable food systems.
- Farmer training and certification to strengthen agroecology.
- Consumer education to build awareness and demand.
The recent merger between SAOSO and Participatory Guarantee System South Africa (PGS SA) has further strengthened their ability to scale resilient, locally driven food systems.
A Movement Gaining Momentum
The Geneva visit sparked meaningful conversations with policymakers, funders, and global change makers, opening new pathways for collaboration and scaling regenerative solutions worldwide.
Project Biome Global and SAOSO’s presence in Geneva was more than a showcase, it was a call to action. Their work continues to inspire a growing international community committed to:
- Restoring ecosystems.
- Empowering communities.
- Transforming food and farming systems.
- Reimagining how humanity lives, grows, and connects.
Together, they are helping to build a regenerative future where economies and societies thrive within planetary boundaries.