JUSTIN TREZZA, FIELD PROGRAM DIRECTOR
SUSTAINABLE HARVEST INTERNATIONAL

Justin Trezza is a believer of Einstein’s words, “We can’t solve problems by using the same kind of thinking we used when we created them.” We are facing a global crisis in food sovereignty, cultural preservation, resource management and climate stability, and subsequently need a paradigm shift. The global community must rethink solutions if we are to provide for a better future.  According to Justin, this paradigm shift falls in the hands of small organizations, like Sustainable Harvest International, which seek to empower individuals and find holistic solutions that promote well-being, regenerative farming and sustainability. 

Prior to SHI, Justin dedicated his time to grassroots organizing and environmental advocacy with Greenpeace USA. A George Washington University graduate, Justin first got involved in the non-profit world in 1999 interning with the social entrepreneur organization Ashoka. Following graduation in 2002 with degrees in International Affairs and Anthropology, Justin set off for the jungles of Honduras where he served three years as a Peace Corps volunteer working to educate and mobilize rural farmers.

Justin developed integrated design systems such as biogas digesters that utilized organic waste material to produce energy for cooking and worked to implement permaculture as part the Protected Areas Management training program of Peace Corps Honduras. Living simply and working in small-scale farming, Justin gained a improved sense of community development, food sovereignty and the plethora of crisis confronting the planet.  His desire to bring sustainability and food sovereignty to marginalized rural communities grew and his hunger for more hands-on experience and knowledge seemed unending.

As Field Program Director at Sustainable Harvest International since 2008, Justin oversees the proper implementation of SHI’s mission and vision.  He is constantly seeking new solutions to the growing ecological and socio-economic problems in Central America, and has worked closely with local field staff to develop the tools necessary to meet objectives.

As well as presenting on his experiences in Central America and work with SHI’s field programs, Justin can speak on issues related to agroforestry, culturally appropriate development, permaculture, food security and more.  Justin brings personal experience and honest opinions to his audiences and allows them to reflect on the shortcomings of sustainable development and its future.    

Outside of his appreciation for nature, sustainability and culture, Justin is a lover of local foods and is an avid cyclist.

Past speaking engagements include:
2010 – Heller School for Social Policy and Management - Brandeis University
2008 – Nonprofit Management - Brown University
2009 – Engineers without Borders - NE Conference
2007 – Climate Change and Our Health - Western Michigan University

Would you like to book Justin Trezza as a speaker at your event? Please contact us.