Guardians of Earth’s Tomorrow
A photo essay series – Part III

The Seed Fairs of Heñói is part three of Guardians of Earth’s Tomorrow, a new series of photo essays from the Global Forest Coalition. The current agrifood system, characterized by capitalism and patriarchy, is failing in its basic mission to nourish the world. Simultaneously, it is causing harm to the soil, water, air, and people, severely impacting biodiversity. However, there are examples and glimpses of hope worldwide—indications of a future where food production serves as a means to heal the planet and foster positive relationships among diverse human groups.

Through our series of photo essays entitled “Guardians of the Earth’s Tomorrow,” in collaboration with organizations that are actively creating utopias today, we aim to remind us that not all is lost. We invite you to explore and share these initiatives, joining us on a journey towards much-needed hope during these times of crisis.

In the heart of Asunción, Paraguay, two extraordinary fairs took place in 2023 against the backdrop of a fight for food sovereignty: the ‘Heñói Jey Native and Creole Seed Fair’ and the ‘Karú Soberano Fair’, which means ‘Sovereign Eating’ in the Guaraní language. They were organised under the guidance and leadership of the Heñói Seed Network. At these fairs, seeds emerge not just as agricultural treasures but as custodians of a profound legacy.

All photos in this essay are courtesy of the Heñói Center for Studies and Promotion of Democracy, Human Rights and Socio-environmental Sustainability, Paraguay.

Click on the links to download the photo essay in English and Spanish.

Click here to view the interactive online version in English.

Or continue scrolling to view it right here on the GFC Website.