Catarina was raised between the capital city and the countryside of Portugal. Academically she studied biology, ecology and evolution, and is now a PhD researcher on sustainability transitions, focusing on community-led regenerative transitions of rural agrifood systems. She's the co-founder of the environmental activist association Dunas Livres and of the platform of environmental CSOs of the southwest coast of Portugal, called TAMLA. She's a skilled facilitator and non-formal educator, and a student of agroecology and regenerative agriculture. She weaves in several networks for rural regeneration, such as Re.Rural (Iberian) and Ecoversities Alliance (global), and since 2024 she has created and guided the Ecovillage Tours of Portugal and Greece, promoting rural innovation initiatives in these territories through regenerative tourism. Paralelly, she's worked professionally as a dancer and teacher of dance and movement for more than 10 years, having taught humans of all backgrounds and ages to connect to nature through their bodies and imagination. At The Southern LIghts, Catarina brings in her diverse experience into communicating our efforts with our dear audience, through various relatable ways.
