Brazil: Agroforestry and BioConstruction Apprenticeship

Introduction

Our apprenticeship program offers a unique alternative for those seeking to spend their valuable apprenticeship time immersed in nature and engaged in hands-on, meaningful work focused on sustainability. Unlike traditional office or company settings, you’ll have the opportunity to contribute to a project dedicated to making a positive impact on the region socially, ecologically, and economically.

Many companies contribute to the destruction of our planet or prioritize enriching their owners above all else. However, you’ll play a role in a project with a different mission—one that aims to create positive change and preserve our environment for future generations.

Choosing to do your apprenticeship in a foreign country offers the added benefit of language and cultural immersion. But perhaps the most significant learning opportunity is the chance to learn about yourself. Through your experiences here, you’ll discover new strengths, passions, and perspectives that will shape your personal and professional growth in profound ways.

Daily Life

As an apprentice your average week will be a balanced blend of hands-on work, research, and recreational activities. Typically, apprentices work 8 hours per day, 3 days a week (usually Monday, Wednesday, and Friday), with the other 2 days dedicated to research or specific tasks for university requirements. We prioritize flexibility to accommodate your university obligations while also fostering integration into ourr routine.

Throughout the week, apprentices engage in various hands-on tasks such as agroforestry, bioconstruction, and animal care. On Tuesdays, introductory lectures on farm techniques are offered, followed by eco-sport and touristic activities on Thursdays, including hikes to scenic peaks, visits to waterfalls and natural pools, and mountain bike tours.

Monthly general meetings provide opportunities for sharing thoughts and suggestions for improvement. Weekends are free, although we offer two extra eco-sport or tourism activities per month for those interested. Many volunteers use weekends to explore nearby Nova Friburgo or Rio de Janeiro.

Every two weeks, volunteers come together for socializing during volunteer nights, cooking together, enjoying bonfires, karaoke nights, or stargazing. Suggestions for activities are always welcome as we value spending quality time together.

Research Topic:

Together with your supervisors, you’ll select a research topic aligned with our sustainability goals. Our agroforestry and bioconstruction projects serve as reference points, with a focus on transforming monoculture landscapes into biodiverse, profitable agroforestry systems and promoting natural building techniques in the region.

Research topics may include studying our agroforestry system’s impact on local farmers’ income, or strategies to promote the adoption of natural building techniques among community members. With our Ecolibrium compound under construction, there are ample opportunities for research and innovation in sustainable practices.

Travel and Accom.

Airport pick-up is not included, but we can arrange transportation for €170 euros per way. Alternatively, we can provide detailed instructions for using public transportation to reach the farm, ideal for those seeking immersion in Brazilian culture from the start.

We offer three accommodation options tailored to your preferences. From basic shared facilities to luxurious high-comfort amenities, we cater to diverse living standards and needs. Whether you prioritize privacy, cultural immersion, or family-friendly comfort with reliable internet, we have accommodations to suit your preferences. Discuss with us when applying.

Situated on the outskirts of the 3 Picos Natural Reserve, the area offers a stunning mountain region ripe for exploration. Enjoy hikes, camping weekends, horseback riding, and other outdoor activities amidst the Atlantic Forest ecosystem.

Weekly events such as movie nights, games nights, and volunteer gatherings with campfires foster team integration beyond the work environment. Every couple of weeks, we organize camping weekends for added adventure.

During free time, volunteers can explore the area independently or join organized activities like hikes (some complimentary, others with additional fees, such as horseback riding trips). Nova Friburgo, a nearby town with a calm and friendly atmosphere, offers amenities and a secure environment for exploration. For a taste of city life, volunteers can take a three-hour bus ride to Rio de Janeiro and immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of one of Brazil’s most famous cities.

Requirements

• Minimum age 18
• Passion and enthusiasm for environmental conservation
• Not afraid to get your hands dirty!
• Ability to work within a team environment
• Minimum 1 week commitment
• CRB Police check (or equivalent) showing that you have no previous criminal convictions
• Good English skills
• Necessary vaccinations
• Necessary flight & visas
• Full travel & medical insurance. Full assistance will be provided in getting everything you will need ready if you choose our Placement Support Package.

Costs

€395 Euros per week

* Check the latest currency conversions with xe.com
** All payments incur a 5% bank transfer fee
*** Placements are confirmed with a 1 week deposit

What’s Included:

Project Fee includes food, accommodation, orientation, in-country support and project activities.

What’s not included:

Flights, insurance, airport pickup, visas (if applicable) and vaccinations. Full assistance will be provided in getting all these arranged if you choose our Premium Support.

Premium Support Upgrade

We understand there’s a great deal to plan and organise for your trip. When booking a Placement, many of our participants choose to purchase our Premium Support Upgrade to benefit from the expertise, knowledge and experience of our Project Coordinators.

We can provide the personal advice you need to ensure your trip is organised with excellence and planned with efficiency; ensuring the very best experience possible. Read more about how we can help you.