If you dream of immersing yourself in South America's andean cultures in view of snowcapped volcanos, while making a real-world impact for rural communities, our Changemaker Programme is for you.
As part of El Terreno's vibrant international community, use your skills on specific social & environmental projects, while discovering your purpose and developing the skills to step into a more significant and successful life — no matter your age.
THE REGION
El Terreno is nestled on a hillside in Bolívar province, just outside the charming colonial town of Guaranda in central Ecuador. Surrounded by traditional farmland and indigenous communities, it promises stunning views of the majestic Chimborazo Volcano, the closest point on Earth to the sun.
THE CHALLENGE
Rural communities in the Andes around Guaranda struggle to maintain their autonomy while navigating complex legal and administrative systems. Many face bureaucratic barriers that do not accommodate low literacy levels, limited access to legal support against threats such as mining and deforestation, and fragmented organisations often affected by historical inequalities and racial divides. Although strong collective traditions like the ‘Minga’ exist, weak governance structures limit their ability to access resources, coordinate effectively, and engage with external partners.
THE SOLUTION
We are looking for dedicated interns in Law & Community Governance to strengthen local leadership and organisational capacity. You will work directly with community leaders, water committees, and farmers’ associations to improve legal frameworks, administrative systems, record-keeping, and strategic planning. By respecting indigenous knowledge and collective values, you will help build clearer governance structures and contribute towards a unified inter-community network for better resource management and long-term resilience.
THE CHANGEMAKER PROGRAMME
As part of our flagship programme, you will push yourself out of your comfort zone to experience a life of greater community, culture, contribution and calling.
Based on your skills and interests, you will be assigned to one of our hands-on social and environmental projects based on community needs. With support of our bilingual coordinators, professional mentors and local partners, you will co-create lasting solutions for low-income communities.
On site, you'll be provided the logistical support, food and accommodation for a comfortable stay, as well as regular check-ins, cultural activities and language guidance.
Living alongside a cohort of global Changemakers, you will spend your free time discovering Ecuador's mega-biodiversity and fascinating culture. Everything to provide you the experience of a lifetime.
IDEAL CANDIDATE
The programme is open to all ages — whether you're an aspiring talent, experienced professional or insightful elder, you can contribute to a more vibrant, prosperous and regenerative world.
As an organisation committed to a participatory-based approach, we search for ethically minded participants with a respect for cultural differences. Intermediate English or Spanish is essential, and our bilingual coordinators will help with the translation and community integration.
A model participant is passionate, proactive, well organised, and takes pride in their work — all this while desiring to step outside of their comfort zone, build authentic relationships, and become a member of a dynamic multi-cultural community.
OUR EXPERIENCE
Since 2021, over 250 people from over 40 countries have contributed to social and environmental projects in diverse areas such as sustainable architecture, cultural preservation, gender empowerment, and community water management. On average, our alumni consistently score us with 4.7+ out of 5 across all programmes and platforms.
FIND OUT MORE!
Are you looking to find your purpose and apply your skills in an impactful way, while experiencing South American landscapes and culture in search of a richer and more meaningful life?
If so, make an application to schedule your free Discovery Call with our Founder and find out what your next adventure could look like.
