ALLAN SCHWARZ

Mezimbite Forest Centre, was founded by Allan Schwarz in the heart of Mozambique’s Miombo Biome in 1994. Over the years Mezimbite has developed and implemented unique grass roots based forest management and restoration systems based on the concept of “Conservation by Design” and the crafting of “usable art” as an antidote to the destructive Neo-Colonial economics which plague our forests. It is the to go to place for high quality and sustainable wooden and non timber forest products, as well as the design and training necessary to replicate similar products and projects. Allan came to this career having taught a program at MIT CAVS, titled “Design with Nature” and having having nursed the concept of  “Cradle to Grave Design” through its infancy, based on a successful career as an artist, craftsman, architect and environmental designer.  He frequently guest teaches around the environmental and social issues and responsibilities of architects, planners, designers and makers at a wide range of international institutions based on his rigorous practice at Mezimbite. Allan is an elected Beautiful Soul Africa Fellow and Ashoka Fellow. He was recently acknowledged in a publication of the world’s leading “Climate Warriors”.