Meet Basiliana: Mother, Optimist, Conservationist.

Sitting outside her house in the foothills of Mount Namuli, Basiliana proudly told us about her son Filimonio’s work as a conservationist, promoting sustainable farming in rainforest.

“I really like that Filimonio has his job and is enjoying himself” she smiled.

Filimonio left home to study in town, and now works to protect the forest where he grew up, promoting sustainable farming in rainforest.

Only afterwards did we learn just how dedicated Basiliana was in helping her son achieve his dreams.

Filimonio stayed with his uncle in town whilst he was studying. But buying food from the market was expensive, and that money was greatly needed elsewhere. So Basiliana undertook a dusty, seven-hour walk in searing heat or pouring rain, down the steep slopes of the Namuli plateau. He carried baskets of produce for Filimonio’s packed lunches every single week. It was Basiliana’s only option if she wanted Filimonio to get through school. And with his lunch delivered, it was the same long walk back up to her house in the shadow of the mountain.

The sun breaks through the clouds above rainforest in Mount Namuli, Mozambique, where sustainable farming practices support rainforest

She made this incredible sacrifice every week so her son could stay in school. Then go on to further education at an agricultural college. Now, Filimonio has a job as a conservationist with Lupa and Legado, Cool Earth’s partner organisations in Mozambique. That means savings for his family, and a job that supports the community he grew up in.

By families promoting more sustainable farming methods like beekeeping, Filimonio and his team are empowering the community.  With leadership skills, and stronger land rights.

All thanks to the belief of mothers like Basiliana.

Basiliana, a supporter of sustainable farming in rainforest, Mount Namuli