Inside the Trocano Project: Our Latest Visit to Borba
Community, Conservation, and Collaboration in Action
Returning to Borba is always special – and this time was no different. We always value the time we are able to spend out in the project area, and with the on-the-ground team who work diligently to ensure the progress and achievements of the project.
A Warm Welcome in Borba
From the moment we stepped off the plane, we were warmly welcomed, by familiar faces we’ve come to know, and by others we were meeting for the first time – all of us part of something shared.
As always, the Trocano team had excelled in the preparation for the visit and had laid out a breakfast with all the local favourites – cakes, fried bananas, tapioca, and the famous “X-Caboquinho”. More than the food, it was the thought and warmth behind it that set the tone for the week.
Our first stop was the Basilica of Santo Antônio, where I was gifted a small statue of the saint by Mayor Raimundo Santana (“Toco”) – a meaningful gesture that spoke volumes about the connection between place, tradition, and the people who care for both. We visited the nearby square and statue as well and took time to talk about the cultural life of Borba and the energy that fills the town each June during the Saint Anthony festival.
From Schools to Shared Meals: Connecting in São Lázaro
Later that day, we travelled to São Lázaro to visit Danilo Areosa School. The classrooms were in real need of repair, and it was encouraging to see Mayor Toco Santana immediately collaborate with Go Balance to jointly getting that work done. The school garden was a highlight – full of healthy, locally grown food. It’s the kind of initiative that brings nutrition, education and pride together in one place.
We met with members of the community and listened as they shared what the Trocano Project has meant for them. It was humbling to hear their appreciation, but also their honesty about what’s still needed. That evening, over a relaxed barbecue and conversation, the team reflected on the day and the steps ahead. There was a genuine sense of motivation and shared purpose.
Life Along the River: A Journey into the Amazon
The next morning, we boarded a boat to Lake Tucunaré. Travelling on the river is a journey that’s become familiar but which is no less meaningful each time. It always serves as a reminder for how life flows out here – steady, peaceful, and full of quiet strength.
In Puruzinho, we were welcomed by Mr. Laranja, who proudly walked us through his cocoa plantation. He spoke with such clarity about the challenges he faces, but also with determination to keep going and do things right. Sustainability wasn’t just a concept – it was visible in every part of how he works.
Further on in Puru Grande, Mr. Bento showed us his stingless bees and honey production. He, too, had a vision – he asked for a greenhouse to help dry cocoa properly and improve local production. It was a simple, practical request – and a reminder that real impact often comes from supporting people in doing what they already know how to do, just with a bit more support.
Stories That Inspire: From the Locals, From the Heart
In the community of Trocanã, Mayor Toco Santana shared his personal story – from tough beginnings to becoming mayor of Borba. We sat and listened as he spoke about the path he’s taken, and about a small solar power project in the community that’s making a real difference. It was a powerful moment – personal and hopeful.
Later, we visited the property of Mr. Israel, a farmer and honey producer who’s been involved with the Trocano Project’s training programmes. He proudly showed us his plantation, his planting techniques, and his stingless bee hives. His success is a great example of what’s possible when people are given tools, knowledge, and support.
That afternoon, we stopped at Puxurizal Lagoon – a peaceful, beautiful location, rich with lush forest and a thriving ecosystem. This gave us a moment to reflect on why we work so hard to protect the entire project area from the ongoing deforestation risk that is ever-present. Surrounded by the natural beauty here, it was a reminder of how important it is to protect and share it with care.
Building Together: Conversations, Tourism and Training
Over the next day or two, we continued visiting producers, joining discussions about sustainable tourism, and meeting with local leaders. These conversations are part of our regular engagement with the project and its communities – helping to shape how we grow and improve together. We spoke about training in hospitality and basic English, so communities can welcome visitors and benefit more from local tourism. It all fits together – economic opportunity, environmental care, and community pride.
We also spent dedicated time with the Trocano team, reflecting on their progress and achievements, and listening to their plans for future initiatives and discussing shared strategies.
Closing the Week with Gratitude and Purpose
By Friday, we’d shared meals, stories, ideas and plans. The week ended as warmly as it began – with a breakfast at the mayor’s farm, a lunch hosted by Mrs Marisa Graça at her home, and final meetings with public officials. Before heading to the airport, we visited local government departments to experience how things work, day to day.
Finally, we extended a warm and heartfelt thanks to the Trocano team and everyone involved in the week, both for the preparations made and for the successful and meaningful experience we had all shared.
Reaffirming the Importance of Protecting Against Deforestation
As I left Borba this time, what stayed with me most was the strength of the people, the simplicity of their ideas, and the energy of the Trocano team. This wasn’t just a visit – it was a chance to listen, learn, and walk alongside the people who are living this work every day, and part of the ongoing relationship that grows stronger each time we return.
It was also a reminder: that every credit we account for, every tree we map, and every community we support begins with a purpose. And that purpose is to protect the forest, its biodiversity, and everyone within it.