Get to know us
Why we do what we do
The father of the project
I am david
I’m the father of Patrick and Frank and one of the founders of Finca Encuentro. Born and raised on the Canary Islands, I have always felt deeply connected to this island and its people. With spanish roots and a background in tourism, I have spent my life working with different cultures and communities. Agriculture has been my passion for more than 25 years. Through various fincas across the Canary Islands, I have gained extensive experience in sustainable farming. At Finca Encuentro, I now share this passion and knowledge with the next generation alongside my sons.
Hi there!
I'm Patrick
Besides keeping spirits high at the finca,, I am mainly responsible for the day-to-day operations. I have been part of the project since day one, and you could say that almost every stone on the finca has passed through my hands. After studying business administration and spending a few years in the corporate world, I decided I wanted more sunshine, nature and family in my life. That decision brought me to Tenerife and back together with my father. Since then, I am a permaculture coach in the making. It has been incredible to watch the finca grow and evolve, and I am excited to see where the journey takes us next.
Our Man in Research
My name is Frank
Working from afar, I am currently based at the Wuppertal Institute for Climate, Environment and Energy, where I am completing my PhD. My research focuses on the use of renewable energy in agriculture, providing important scientific insights and a solid foundation for the field operations on the finca. As the third co-founder, I support the project remotely and take care of all design-related matters. In particular, I have enjoyed working on our merchandise, including the t-shirts and caps, where I have been able to bring in my creative side.
Our Garden Mastermind
Hi! I'M Marco
Born near Rimini, I left my beautiful Italian hometown two years ago to come to Tenerife. After many years of experience working as a self-employed garden designer, I am now responsible for the entire food forest and vegetable production on the finca. I know every plant here by name and keep track of all the beds, as well as every fruit and vegetable we grow. My love for gardening and nature is, at least according to the volunteers, very visible. In addition, I take care of the volunteers working in the garden and really enjoy sharing my knowledge and enthusiasm with them.
Our helping hands
The VOlunteers
Our volunteers are an important part of life on the finca. From 18 to their mid-60s, people from many different countries, backgrounds, and skill levels have joined our growing finca family. The Volunteers mainly support us in the garden by planting, harvesting, pruning, and weeding. Depending on interests and experience, some also help with planning and building new projects.
Interested in joining us? Send us a message on WhatsApp or have a look at our current volunteer opportunities.
How we Work
Our Mission
Our mission is to create a green oasis of education and exploration, embodying a holistic permaculture concept. Through our Finca and educational space, we strive to inspire sustainable living, fostering a harmonious relationship between individuals, corporations and our planet. We demonstrate that a more sustainable way of living and behaving is not only possible but essential for the well-being & survival of both our ecosystems and ourselves. Together, we can cultivate a greener future and empower others to join us in making a positive impact on our world. Our pilot-project will showcase that this can be achieved while maintaining the comforts and advancements of modern life and thus opening the way for human adoption and real change. Emphasising and encouraging real change, we are creating an example for individuals and organisation that a focus on sustainable practises can be the very reason for profit instead of additional costs. It is a lot, but let’s do it together!
We are already putting our mission into practice every day. If you would like to experience sustainable living firsthand and become part of the journey, we invite you to join our team.
Building a Sustainable Future Together
Growing with European Support
The development of Finca Encuentro has been supported through European funding programs. We are grateful for this support, which helps us expand our work in sustainability, education and regenerative agriculture.
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