Leamington couple sees local fundraising efforts at work in Philippines

The Philippines may be well known for its beautiful beaches and kind people, but a recent visit by Mariel and Jim Konrad provides insight into the Cacao Industry, deep in the Southern Province of Mindanao, Philippines. 

Just north of the Equator and Indonesia lies some of the world’s most sought-after cacao beans, which are the key ingredient for chocolate. Cacao is a fruit grown in a band just above and below the Equator and the cacao industry in the Philippines was identified by MEDA (Mennonite Economic Development Associates) as a potential International Project two years ago.

Locally, MEDA Leamington has been raising funds to support the Philippines Project and past members Mariel and Jim Konrad recently returned from visiting Davao. 

Jim described it as a life-altering experience. 

“After years of working on events locally to raise funds, we were blessed with the opportunity to see those funds at work with the farmers of Davao and the impacts of MEDA at work Internationally,” he said. “The Davao MEDA team have done an incredible job not only with the project but also hosting and educating us on their impact.” 

Funds raised locally are amplified by Global Affairs Canada at seven times multiple. This partnership allowed MEDA to establish an office in Davao after identifying bottlenecks within the cacao industry. 

Senior Development Officer with MEDA, Dean Shoemaker, points out MEDA’s focus on their International Projects. 

“MEDA looks to ensure sustainability when entering any of our International Projects,” he says. “MEDA works with the entire supply chain and that starts with strong supportive relationships with local farmers.”

Mariel Konrad has direct ties to the Philippines and was encouraged by the impact of the project. 

“It was beautiful to see empowered women and girls hard at work within the cacao industry,” she said. “We visited organic farms run by indigenous families in its most natural setting. The mountains, jungle and people truly embraced the impact of this project on their lives, it was a blessing to see it in person.”

The Konrads visited all levels of the cacao industry supply chain and will be sharing their experiences and stories locally with photo and video support. 

Cured Craft Brewing Company on Mill St in Leamington will be the venue for one of MEDA Leamington’s next events on Thursday, April 25 at 6:30 p.m.

More information about MEDA and its International Projects is available at www.meda.org