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Our Team

Advisory Board

John D. Liu

General Advisor

John D. Liu

General Advisor

As a General Advisor and inspirational thought leader for the Dryland Solutions Community, John has been a steadfast supporter of Yasmin Mohamud since the beginning. Born in 1953 in Nashville, Tennessee, John Dennis Liu is a Chinese American filmmaker and ecologist, as well as a researcher affiliated with several institutions. In January 2015, John was appointed a Visiting Fellow at the Netherlands Institute of Ecology (NIOO) of the Royal Netherlands Academy of Arts and Sciences. John Liu produced, wrote, and directed "The Lessons of the Loess Plateau." This film narrates the remarkable story of how scientists, in collaboration with local farmers in one of the planet's most eroded regions, reversed thousands of years of environmental degradation caused by human and natural actions. In 2013, John received the Communications Award from the Society for Ecological Restoration (SER). "Green Gold," a film about his work produced by VPRO, won a Prix Italia award. His film “Hope in a Changing Climate” was recognized as the best ecosystem film by the International Wildlife Film Festival and received several other accolades. John has dedicated his life to understanding and communicating the potential and responsibility of restoring degraded landscapes on a global scale since realizing the feasibility of rehabilitating large-scale damaged ecosystems. Since 2009, he has collaborated with Willem Ferwerda, Founder and CEO of the Commonland Foundation, which is spearheading privately funded large-scale restoration projects worldwide. John is also the founder of the Ecosystem Restoration Camps movement, initiated in 2016. This movement has expanded to over 40 camps across six continents and continues to grow. Additionally, John frequently travels and collaborates with individuals and institutions in various countries.

Carla Carballo

General Advisor

Carla Carballo

General Advisor

Carla serves as a General Advisor, leveraging her extensive expertise as a Special Education teacher within the New York City public school system. With a rich experience spanning over 15 years, Carballo has honed her skills in addressing the diverse needs of students in high-need communities, a testament to her commitment and adaptability in the field of education. Holding a Master's in Special Education from The City College of New York, she is well-versed in innovative teaching strategies, individualized education plans, and inclusive classroom practices. Carballo's deep understanding of special education equips her with unique insights and methodologies that can be transformative for students in Somalia, especially those with learning differences or disabilities. Her approach emphasizes tailored educational experiences that cater to individual strengths and challenges, ensuring that each child receives the support they need to thrive. Beyond the classroom, Carballo's dedication to social equity and sustainable solutions is evident. She has been instrumental in collaborating with organizations such as Home for the Homeless, the Muslim Women Institute for Research and Development, IMANA Medical Relief, and Cal Aid. Her involvement with these groups highlights her ability to contribute significantly to community-focused initiatives, which could include educational programs in Somalia. By applying her specialized skills and inclusive educational philosophies , Carballo has the potential to make a substantial impact on the educational landscape in Somalia, particularly for students requiring specialized educational support."

Dr. Osman Salad Hersi

General Advisor

Dr. Osman Salad Hersi

General Advisor

Dr. Osman is a General Advisor for the Dryland Solutions community since 2017 and a significant supporter of the organization. He is distinguished in the field of sedimentology and stratigraphy, with a focus on siliciclastic, carbonate, and mixed clastic-carbonate sequences. His expertise extends to sedimentary basin analysis, including the study of paleogeographic evolution, the interplay of tectonics and eustacy in sedimentation, and the diagenesis of sedimentary rocks, which are crucial for understanding reservoir characterization. Additionally, Dr. Hersi is known for his expertise in watershed mapping in Somalia. His detailed mapping and analysis are essential for environmental planning, water resource management, and understanding the ecological and geological dynamics of the region. His contributions have been vital in providing insights for sustainable development and environmental conservation efforts in Somalia. His extensive knowledge and practical applications in these specialized fields of geology make him an invaluable asset in both academic and environmental management contexts.

Maximilian Abouleish

General Advisor

Maximilian Abouleish

General Advisor

Maximilian, a General Advisor for the Dryland Solutions Community, has been with Egypt's SEKEM community since 2010, spearheading Sustainable Development initiatives. In this role, he adeptly combines economic, social, cultural, and ecological dimensions to tackle significant societal challenges. His expertise is rooted in a transformative PhD program focused on integral development, encompassing ecosystem development, climate change mitigation, and biodiversity conservation. In addition to his environmental work, Maximilian is a strong advocate for educational innovation. He promotes forward-thinking learning and teaching methods that align with the SEKEM Vision Goals, aiming for a sustainable and regenerative future. His approach goes beyond traditional education, fostering a new generation of leaders prepared to navigate and address the complexities of our evolving world. Through his work, Maximilian demonstrates a profound commitment to practical sustainability efforts and the advancement of holistic, integrative educational practices.

Global Collaborative

Rhamis Kent

Design Expert and General Advisor

Rhamis Kent

Design Expert and General Advisor

Regenerative Design Expert and General Advisor, Dryland Solutions Community Rhamis Kent effectively merges his background in mechanical engineering (B.S.M.E., University of Delaware, '95) with permaculture-based regenerative whole systems design as a General Advisor to the Dryland Solutions Community. His advisory role is central to steering the community towards sustainable environmental practices through his deep understanding of regenerative design. In addition to his advisory duties, Rhamis is a certified Permaculture Design instructor with PRI Australia, a co-director of the Permaculture Research Institute (PRI), and a member of Permaculture Sustainable Consulting Pty Ltd (PSC). He also plays an active role on the Supervisory Board of the Ecosystem Restoration Camps Foundation. Rhamis has a global presence in his professional work, offering teaching and consultancy in regions such as the Palestine/Occupied West Bank, Greece, Ethiopia, Yemen, Turkey, Thailand, Malaysia, Italy, Spain, Jordan, Morocco, Tunisia, Australia, the United States, and other countries including Spain, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Afghanistan, India, Pakistan, Somalia, and Western Sahara.

Moein Nodehi

CEO of BIOTONOMY

Moein Nodehi

CEO of BIOTONOMY

CEO of BIOTONOMY – Pioneering Nature-Based Solutions for Buildings & Communities Moein Nodehi, the visionary founder of Biotonomy, leads his team in designing and constructing autonomous buildings that incorporate innovative nature-based solutions. As Biotonomy's lead architect, he excels in devising customized autonomous solutions that utilize local resources. His designs are not only groundbreaking but also adhere to advanced nature-based design principles, surpassing traditional passive and green-building certification standards. In addition to his role at Biotonomy, Moein serves as an instructor and teacher at the Earthship Academy. There, he imparts his knowledge on constructing self-sufficient buildings using natural and recycled materials to students from across the globe. His work extends to collaborating with a diverse international network, aiming to hasten the shift towards autonomous development with nature-based solutions. This endeavor encompasses both landscape restoration and the creation of sustainable homes and communities. His expertise is further recognized through his roles as an Instructor & Teacher at Earthship Academy, Foreman & Team Leader at Earthship Biotecture, and as an Architectural Engineer & Instructor at the KTH Royal Institute of Technology, with experience spanning Sweden, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This revised version maintains the essence of the original text while enhancing clarity and flow.

Aude Péronne

Global Representative

Aude Péronne

Global Representative

Aude serves as a global representative for the Dryland Solutions Community, collaborating with Yasmin Mohamud on general development strategies for the overall project. She is also responsible for developing the global network and partnerships. Engaged in ecosystem restoration and community building since 2004, Aude bridges these areas to approach regenerative development and systems thinking in her design strategies. She is an advocate for Earth & Water stewardship and the well-being of people. Her journey has led her to understand the intrinsic connection of humanity to Earth's ecosystems. The central question for her is how to harness collective wisdom and intelligence to sustain this connection in a positive manner, to live a conscious, respectful, and resilient life, and to cultivate relationships based on diversity and collaboration among cultures and generations. Aude envisions a positive evolution of humanity by transforming grief and loss into constructive actions and collaborative efforts. She embraces the complexities and challenges of our changing world and facilitates the emergence of cohesive laboratories both globally and locally. These laboratories aim to empower and connect people worldwide who are committed to building solutions for our common aspirations and needs as stewards of our planet.

Bob Garthson

Global Education Representative

Bob Garthson

Global Education Representative

Bob has a rich background in education, social work, and agriculture. He has degrees in History and Political Science from the University of Waterloo, a Bachelor of Education from the University of Toronto, and a Certificate in Special Education. Bob has worked as a teaching assistant, social worker, manager of a cattle ranch, federal officer, and teacher. He has held leadership positions in the Ontario Secondary Teachers Federation and represented the Canadian Teachers Federation on the Education International Technical Education Committee. In the agricultural sector, Bob founded Valley Pines Organics in 2003, focusing on organic, biodynamic, and regenerative gardening. He has been an executive member of the Ecological Farmers Association of Ontario and involved in various agriculture and food policy councils and committees. Bob is also active in environmental and community organizations, such as the National Farmers Union, the Northumberland Council of Canadians, and the Ontario Climate Emergency Campaign. He has been gardening using organic and regenerative practices since 1956 and has grown a wide variety of vegetables, herbs, and fruit. Bob is committed to establishing more community gardens and promoting healthy local food, with connections to organic farmers and educators in Cuba.

Staff

Yasmin Mohamud

Founder and CEO

Yasmin Mohamud

Founder and CEO

Yasmin, the driving force behind Dryland Solutions Community, has dedicated efforts to collaboratively overcome food and water insecurity, ecosystem degradation, and the impacts of climate change. This dedication is rooted in a mission to foster social and ecological prosperity in frontline communities. Holding key positions as Director at Dryland Solutions Community and Coordinator for the Ecosystem Restoration Community in Somalia, Yasmin's expertise spans ecosystem restoration, management of drylands, and regenerative development. These roles underscore a commitment to addressing a range of challenges, from climate to social and environmental issues, particularly in Somalia. Under Yasmin's leadership, the Camp Dryland Solutions initiative has been established, focusing on transformative actions to address climate and environmental challenges. Additionally, a significant landscape restoration project in Somalia, aimed at promoting sustainable land practices and rejuvenating the desert ecosystem, stands as a testament to Yasmin's commitment to ecological restoration and sustainable development within the region.

James Thiong’o

Specialist in Regenerative Agriculture

James Thiong’o

Specialist in Regenerative Agriculture

James Thiong’o Gachie brings over six years of experience in offering practical guidance and consultative services in the design and implementation of Regenerative Agriculture Projects, both locally and regionally. With a passion for ecological sustainability, James aids clients in establishing Regenerative Agriculture Projects by applying Agroecological design principles. His approach prioritizes food security and financial sustainability, utilizing locally available resources while maintaining ecosystem stability.

Shukri Caraby

Digital Communications Manager

Shukri Caraby

Digital Communications Manager

Shukri, the Digital Communications Manager, is at the forefront of driving digital engagement and expanding our community through impactful storytelling. With a foundation in environmental and political discourse and a keen interest in documentary photography, Shukri is deeply committed to advocating for social and environmental justice. The focus of Shukri's work is to highlight the importance of sustainability and community development, with a special emphasis on peacebuilding and reconciliation. By sharing the stories of diverse communities, Shukri aims to bring these crucial issues to a global audience, amplifying the voices and experiences that underscore the need for unity and sustainable practices. This dedication is integral to Shukri’s role in strengthening our digital presence and connecting with audiences worldwide.

Jama Abdiweli

Agricultural Sustainability and Nutrition Specialist

Jama Abdiweli

Agricultural Sustainability and Nutrition Specialist

Jama is responsible for supporting his team in achieving environmental goals, blending his expertise in agriculture and nutrition to enhance food security and overall community well-being. His approach, deeply rooted in the principles of sustainable agriculture, focuses on minimizing food waste and maximizing crop yield through innovative and sustainable methods. As a pioneer among the first permaculture-trained trainers of the Dryland Solutions Community, Jama is dedicated to regenerative agricultural practices. His unwavering commitment to ecological balance, efficient resource utilization, and social justice continue to inspire and motivate his work towards a brighter, more sustainable future.

Nadira Abdirahman Mohamud

Climate and Gender Specialist

Nadira Abdirahman Mohamud

Climate and Gender Specialist

Nadira is an advocate for gender equality and environmental sustainability, focusing her efforts on enhancing the lives of women and girls in Somalia. Her work emphasizes the vital role women and girls play in addressing climate change and advancing sustainable development. As a member of the Dryland Solutions Community team, Nadira provides critical support in operations, applying her expertise to combat the impacts of climate change and promote sustainable practices. She is dedicated to advocating for gender equality in environmental governance and ensuring the active participation of women and girls in climate action. Nadira's commitment is to empower women as key agents in the journey towards sustainable development and social justice in Somalia.

Faaris Adam

Advancing Communications for Social and Environmental Insight

Faaris Adam

Advancing Communications for Social and Environmental Insight

Faaris Adam is an experienced communications expert and documentary filmmaker with over ten years in the media and communications field. His career includes roles at organizations like Global Voices, Save the Children, and the World Bank, and he has also worked as a consultant in various government and private sectors. Specializing in storytelling and advocacy, Faaris focuses on social, political, ecological, and environmental issues in Somalia, capturing changes on the ground. His role emphasizes themes of social and environmental justice. Faaris's collaboration with the Dryland Solutions Community underlines his ability in peacebuilding and reconciliation initiatives. His expertise in communication and media is essential in fostering dialogues and understanding, vital for resolving conflicts and establishing resilient communities in challenging environments. Additionally, his work involves capturing ecological and environmental change, contributing to a better understanding of these critical dynamics. Faaris's involvement in these areas supports the promotion of sustainable peace and stability, reflecting his commitment to social change and ecological awareness.

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