JUST NATURAL-Cultivating Community and Sustainability through Participatory Gardening
Just Natural is a passionate and inspiring project which embodies the fusion of the life experiences and aspirations of Nathalie, its founder, for a more sustainable and connected world.
In a peaceful corner of Mauritius, in the midst of sugarcane fields, a garden unlike any other is taking root, offering much more than fresh produce. Nathalie, originally from Réunion and raised in the Netherlands, has charted a unique path that led her to rethink her relationship with nature and community
Nathalie's journey into community gardening began at a time of deep reflection. After a long career in the oil and gas industry, she questioned the meaning of her life. At the age of 50, she decided to embark on a solo journey around the world. It was a quest to reconnect with humanity, to break through her shyness, and to get closer to people.
But it was during the challenging time of the COVID-19 pandemic that Nathalie truly found her calling. As a vegetarian, she struggled to find fresh vegetables. Inspired by her experiences in the Netherlands, where community gardens are common, she decided to create something similar in Mauritius. Thus was born her project, Just Natural, a space where people can not only participate in growing and harvesting their own food but also reconnect with nature and community.
The concept is simple yet powerful: instead of selling the produce in markets, people come to pick what they need themselves. This creates a direct connection between consumers and their food, fostering a deeper appreciation for the growth process and agricultural work. Moreover, by adopting sustainable farming practices and avoiding chemicals, Nathalie's garden becomes a living example of regenerative and environmentally friendly agriculture.
Nathalie's Just Natural goes beyond mere food production. It is a place for meeting, learning, and sharing.
Local and foreign volunteers come together to cultivate, exchange ideas, and build bonds. Nathalie herself is a YouTube graduate, having learned much through trial and error. She encourages everyone to get involved, to experiment, and to learn together.
The ultimate goal of Nathalie's garden is to prove that sustainable and self-sufficient living is possible, even in an island environment like Mauritius.
With solar panels for energy, a selection of plants adapted to the local climate, and a holistic approach to sustainability, Just Natural is a model of resilience and autonomy.
Among the plants found in her garden, there is a fascinating variety: from spicy peppers to sweet strawberries, and from fragrant lemongrass to aromatic herbs. Each plant tells a story, each harvest is a celebration of nature and community.
In summary, Just Natural is much more than just a green space. It is a symbol of resilience, connection, and sustainability. It is a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is always light to be found in the soil and in the hearts of people.
