SEKEM - Born of the Sun (©Bertram Verhaag)

Summary

The script narrates the transformation of Egypt's desert into a thriving ecological paradise by Ibrahim Abhilash. Through biological dynamic farming, he cultivated a symbiotic relationship with nature, yielding high-quality produce. Abhilash's vision created jobs, established a community with schools and hospitals, and emphasized education and cooperation. His work earned him the Right Livelihood Award, and he continues to invest in people, exemplifying the belief that individual actions can change the world.

Takeaways

• 🌿 The desert landscape, initially perceived as lifeless, is revealed to be teeming with life when viewed under a microscope, symbolizing the potential for growth and transformation.
• 🌱 Ibrahim Abhilash envisioned turning the desert into a fertile area, drawing parallels to ancient metaphors and biblical stories that also spoke of such transformations.
• 🔬 Industrial agriculture is critiqued for its exploitative practices, while biological dynamic farming is presented as a sustainable alternative that fosters symbiosis among all living organisms.
• 🍅 Biological dynamic farming at the 2nd Ma farm in Egypt has led to the cultivation of a variety of crops, including beans, tomatoes, and oranges, all grown to high ecological standards.
• 🏆 Ibrahim Abhilash was awarded the Right Livelihood Award in 2003 for his work in creating an ecological paradise in the desert, an honor often referred to as the 'Alternative Nobel Prize'.
• 🌍 The 2nd Ma farm has not only grown plants but also ideas, leading to the creation of jobs, a community, schools, hospitals, and a significant market for biological dynamic products.
• 🤝 The community at the 2nd Ma farm is built on the principle of cooperation, with an emphasis on the best investment being in people, reflecting Abhilash's vision from the outset.
• 🏫 Education is a cornerstone of the 2nd Ma initiative, with a focus on respectful teacher-student relationships and the belief that every individual can make a difference.
• 🌐 The 2nd Ma community, which employs around 2,000 people and cooperates with 30,000 more, includes various social institutions like childcare centers, a polyclinic, schools, and adult education centers.
• 🎓 Ibrahim Abhilash's latest initiative is the establishment of a university to pass on the knowledge and expertise gained over 30 years to future generations, aiming to address global issues like poverty and hunger.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of biological dynamic farming as described in the script?

Biological dynamic farming focuses on the existing symbiosis between all living things, aiming to enhance the natural environment and promote sustainable agriculture.

How does the script describe the transformation of the desert into a productive area?

The script describes the transformation of the desert into a productive area through the use of biological dynamic farming methods, which turn the once lifeless desert floor into an ecological paradise.

What is the significance of the Demeter organization mentioned in the script?

The Demeter organization is significant because it imposes stringent criteria for biological dynamic quality, ensuring that products like beans, tomatoes, and oranges meet high standards of organic farming.

Where is the Second Farm located, as per the script?

The Second Farm is located 60 kilometers northeast of Cairo, Egypt.

What has Ibrahim Abhilash achieved in 30 years at the Second Farm?

In 30 years, Ibrahim Abhilash has created an ecological paradise, developed one of the largest biological dynamic markets outside Europe, the US, and Japan, and established a community with schools, hospitals, and thousands of jobs.

What is the principle that the Second Farm community lives and works by, according to the script?

The principle that the Second Farm community lives and works by is cooperation, emphasizing that the best investment is in people.

How does the script highlight the importance of education in the Second Farm community?

The script highlights the importance of education by mentioning that the Second Farm places an uncompromising emphasis on it, with a focus on respect and contact between teachers and students.

What recognition did Ibrahim Abhilash receive in 2003?

In 2003, Ibrahim Abhilash was awarded the Right Livelihood award, also known as the alternative Nobel Prize, in Stockholm.

What is the vision of Ibrahim Abhilash for the future as described in the script?

Ibrahim Abhilash envisions a future where every individual breaks free of limitations, spreads their wings, and contributes to the development of the country and the world.

What is the latest initiative tackled by Ibrahim Abhilash mentioned in the script?

The latest initiative tackled by Ibrahim Abhilash is the establishment of a university to pass down the expertise gained over the past 30 years to future generations.