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 offers stunning views of the majestic Chimborazo Volcano, the closest point on Earth to the sun. 

However, due to multiple challenges related to health, organisation, infrastructure, ecology, education, economy and equality - many (if not most) young people are migrating to the cities and abroad in search of a better life. Through the use of cultural exchange and social innovation, we are working with low-income communities to transform them into vibrant, prosperous and sustainable places to live.

THE CHALLENGE

Guaranda is one of Ecuador's poorest and least developed regions. With a large indigenous population, the rural communities struggle with high poverty rates (40%), child malnutrition (48%) and teenage pregnancy (up to 50%). 500 years after the Spanish colonisation, the forces of globalisation threaten the native language and cultural heritage of these communities, as many young people leave in search of better opportunities in the cities and through illegal migration to the US.

THE SOLUTION

We need diverse cultures and indigenous ways of thinking if we are to survive on this planet, but may only have a generation or two to achieve this in Guaranda. Fortunately, enough ancestral knowledge survives for their traditions to be revived within the diverse global community in the 21st century. Our mission is to deeply understand these cultures, enabling us to develop regenerative solutions that not only preserve and promote local pride, but also improve the quality of life for the communities in Guaranda.

A PERSONALISED PROGRAMME

Now more than ever, employers are looking for a candidates with real-world experiences and strong references that an internship provides. That's why we will work with you to co-create a hands-on internship that matches your unique passions with local community's needs. You will receive a professional mentor throughout your internship and we arrange frequent site visits to other projects to expand your learning. 

We want your internship to be an unforgettable experience where you make an impact, and something that will give you a head start when applying for the job of your dreams!

¡FIND OUT MORE!

¿Interested in developing your career while making a meaningful impact in low-income communities? Schedule your free discovery call to begin co-creating your personalised internship in the heart of the Ecuadorian Andes.

MORE ABOUT US

El Terreno was founded in mid-2021 by Joshua (UK) and Karina (Ecuador). Our vision is to see rural communities have access to quality education, healthcare and employment, while celebrating their culture and regenerating local ecosystems. We work with local staff to offer a variety of internship and volunteering programmes for visitors from around the world, and deliver community activities through our charity.