Empowering the Shuar: Guardians of the Amazon
Join Nature and Culture for a virtual journey to the Ecuadorian Amazon rainforest, home to the indigenous Shuar. The Shuar people represent one of the most prominent ethnic groups in the Amazonian region. Preserving an abundant and rich cultural legacy, the Shuar's religion and beliefs system is based on respect for nature and for their ancestral lands. Nature and Culture conservationist Trotsky Riera will share more about the Shuar's rich culture, fascinating traditions, and dedication to protecting their forest home. In Ecuador, Nature and Culture works with the indigenous Shuar to protect their ancestral homeland and create sustainable development projects so they can thrive culturally and economically. The Shuar culture is characterized by strong traditions and a unique vision of the universe, manifested through their language, food, myths, music, and dance.
Raised in Zamora Province, Ecuador, guide Trotsky Riera Vite is one of Nature and Culture's local conservationists working to protect the forest he loves. Trotsky is an environmental engineer and specialist in habitat restoration and community engagement. He spent a year living and working with an indigenous Shuar community in Ecuador, and is currently developing a Shuar dictionary of flora and fauna. Trotsky brings Nature and Culture's unique conservation model to life in Zamora, working in partnership with indigenous people, local communities, and the regional government. Since joining Nature and Culture in 2007, he has contributed to the expansion of Ecuador's National System of Proteted Areas; worked with the Shuar in the legalization, recognition, and protection of their ancestral territories; and supported the creation and management of the Maycú and Numbala Reserves in Zamora Chinchipe.