Martha Isabel Ruiz Corzo from Mexico
OWA Winner 2021
As co-founder of the Grupo Ecológico Sierra Gorda (GESG), she served as Director for 10 years. During that time, she confronted mining & industry interests and corrupt politicians and was confronted even with life-threatening risks until the Sierra Gorda was turned into a national protected area and an UNESCO Biosphere. With over 400,000 ha and 638 villages it protects 1/3 of the state of Queretaro! Pati is an impressive example of a dedicated, unstoppable woman activist.
FROM THE SOUND OF MUSIC TO SAVING THE SOUND OF NATURE
The environmental education program reaches 17,000 children and 70 agriculture clusters engaging in organic & regenerative practices. Most impressive are the activities in eco-tourism where 33 restaurants have become eco-destinations on the Ruta del Sabor (Flavour Trail).
For every dollar going into the projects, 32 dollars have been generated as a social return on investment which shows that protecting the environment provides decent livelihoods.
Pati is instrumentally supported by her two sons. Roberto, a fantastic photographer
and Mario, who runs an experimental organic training farm. She has
lectured around the world and became internationally known beyond nature
conservation . After 14 years as Federal Director of the Sierra Gorda Biosphere
Reserve she returned to GESG with persistant force. The model inspired the
neighboring state of Guanajuato, adding 263,000 ha as federally protected
land. Pati's energy and dynamism is woman power at its best. With optimism
and with a wonderful song on her lips she will continue to be an inspiration
for the world.
