Experience permaculture and discovery of vegetable kitchen

CODE: BE-SCI 01

Description

The project emphasizes individual expression within a collective setting, whether mastering natural gardening, the art of preserving harvests, or learning nature-inspired crafts,. Nestled in a lush green setting conducive to recharging one's spirit, this local haven weaves precious bonds between regional residents and volunteers from all walks of life. Together, they bring the site to life through shared activities where meditation, yoga, music, and craftsmanship meet, offering a deep and authentic human experience to all.

Type of Work

Throughout the project, volunteers actively participate in managing the vegetable garden through various tasks ranging from sowing and planting to harvesting and composting. A significant part of the program is dedicated to natural building, offering participants the opportunity to practice building renovation using clay-straw (cob) and other bio-based materials. Volunteers also directly participate in the kitchen, preparing plant-based meals enhanced with wild plants. By becoming directly involved in the transformation of both the buildings and the land, volunteers acquire practical skills in eco-construction and food autonomy.

On Sunday, July 19th, an "Open Day" will take place. Volunteers will help set up the event and assist with various tasks such as workshops, bar service, and general hosting.

Study Theme

Permaculture, clay-straw (cob) building, plant-based cooking.

Accommodation

The volunteers will sleep in tents (mattresses and sleeping bags are needed). The living conditions will be rudimentary (cold shower and dry toilets). Volunteers prepare their own meals with the help of the partner and have access to vegetables from the garden. Only vegetarian, local, organic, and seasonal food is available. A few bikes are available (volunteers who already possess a bike are kindly asked to bring it to the project’s location, if possible).

Location and leisure

Village of Beauvechain, Brabant Wallon.
Volunteers will be free in the evenings and the first weekend of the project. They will be able to visit the region and go to the main cities of Belgium by train (there's a station nearby). A couple of bicycles will be available. On the second weekend, the volunteers will help to set up the Open Day. A day off will be possible before (to be defined on the arrival). There are a variety of activities in which volunteers are invited to participate: yoga, meditation, music (volunteers are invited to bring their own instruments), and crafts.

Requirements

This project addresses volunteers willing to discover permaculture's philosophy/spirit, practical applications, and techniques, as well as a lifestyle based on food self-sufficiency. Volunteers are requested to be fully involved in all the proposed activities.