Beekeeping with Indigenous People in the Amazon

Sebastián, pictured here, is not only the president of the Maijuna indigenous federation but he is also now the proud patriarch of an extended family of stingless beekeepers. Sebastian’s direct family has 4 stingless beehives while his three adult sons and their families have a combined 11 hives. Before we started our project in Maijuna lands no one in Sebastian’s extended family was tending stingless bees so we couldn’t be more excited about their successes.

But, Sebastián is not content to just see his extended family succeed, he is also concerned about all the Maijuna. As the president of the Maijuna federation he envisions stingless beekeeping playing a central role in a more sustainable future for the Maijuna. The average Maijuna family survives on less than $2 per day and stingless bee honey can help to significantly boost their income and quality of life in an environmentally and socially responsible way. This ultimately means more sustainable income for school supplies, health care, and other important family expenses. This is real sustainable income, helping to improve the lives of real people.

Please help us achieve Sebastian’s vision for a more sustainable future for the Maijuna by continuing to support our stingless beekeeping work with the Maijuna. As we move into the holiday season, we can think of nothing better or more meaningful than to sponsor a hive of native stingless bees ($50) or a week-long beekeeping workshop ($1,000) in the name of a loved one. Any level of support helps and we cannot thank you enough for your continued support!