If you dream of immersing yourself in South America's andean cultures in view of snowcapped volcanos, while making a real-world impact for rural communities, our Changemaker Programme is for you.
As part of El Terreno's vibrant international community, use your skills on specific social & environmental projects, while discovering your purpose and developing the skills to step into a more significant and successful life — no matter your age.
THE REGION
El Terreno is nestled on a hillside in Bolívar province, just outside the charming colonial town of Guaranda in central Ecuador. Surrounded by traditional farmland and indigenous communities, it promises stunning views of the majestic Chimborazo Volcano, the closest point on Earth to the sun.
THE CHALLENGE
The Andean region surrounding Guaranda is home to remarkable biodiversity, including native forests, rivers, pollinators, and traditional agricultural systems developed over centuries. However, this rich ecological heritage is under increasing threat. Deforestation, expansion of agricultural land, and the intensive use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides are causing serious soil degradation, loss of native vegetation, and contamination of water sources.
Traditional agroforestry practices and natural ecological barriers that once protected the land are rapidly disappearing. As a consequence, populations of beneficial insects, pollinators, and endemic bird species are declining significantly. Erosion is worsening with every planting cycle, and the local hydrology is being disrupted. At the same time, high levels of migration mean that valuable ancestral ecological knowledge is being lost as younger generations leave the area. Without intervention, these fragile highland ecosystems and the cultural connection local families have with their natural environment risk being irreversibly damaged.
THE SOLUTION
We are looking for passionate interns in Biology & Endemic Ecology to support community-based conservation and restoration projects. You will participate in hands-on activities such as habitat restoration, reforestation with native species, biodiversity monitoring, native seed collection and propagation, and protection of critical water sources.
Working alongside local farmers, students, and community organisations, you will help reintroduce native plants, restore ecological corridors, and promote sustainable land-use practices. A key part of your role will be bridging scientific ecological knowledge with traditional Andean wisdom to develop solutions that respect both the environment and local livelihoods. Through this work, you will contribute to protecting the unique biodiversity of the Ecuadorian Andes while helping communities rebuild their connection with nature and strengthen long-term environmental resilience.
THE CHANGEMAKER PROGRAMME
As part of our flagship programme, you will push yourself out of your comfort zone to experience a life of greater community, culture, contribution and calling.
Based on your skills and interests, you will be assigned to one of our hands-on social and environmental projects based on community needs. With support of our bilingual coordinators, professional mentors and local partners, you will co-create lasting solutions for low-income communities.
On site, you'll be provided the logistical support, food and accommodation for a comfortable stay, as well as regular check-ins, cultural activities and language guidance.
Living alongside a cohort of global Changemakers, you will spend your free time discovering Ecuador's mega-biodiversity and fascinating culture. Everything to provide you the experience of a lifetime.
IDEAL CANDIDATE
The programme is open to all ages — whether you're an aspiring talent, experienced professional or insightful elder, you can contribute to a more vibrant, prosperous and regenerative world.
As an organisation committed to a participatory-based approach, we search for ethically minded participants with a respect for cultural differences. Intermediate English or Spanish is essential, and our bilingual coordinators will help with the translation and community integration.
A model participant is passionate, proactive, well organised, and takes pride in their work — all this while desiring to step outside of their comfort zone, build authentic relationships, and become a member of a dynamic multi-cultural community.
OUR EXPERIENCE
Since 2021, over 250 people from over 40 countries have contributed to social and environmental projects in diverse areas such as sustainable architecture, cultural preservation, gender empowerment, and community water management. On average, our alumni consistently score us with 4.7+ out of 5 across all programmes and platforms.
FIND OUT MORE!
Are you looking to find your purpose and apply your skills in an impactful way, while experiencing South American landscapes and culture in search of a richer and more meaningful life?
If so, make an application to schedule your free Discovery Call with our Founder and find out what your next adventure could look like.
