Our Progam

 The International Center for Sustainable Ecotourism (ICSE) is a pioneering initiative launched by the Alliance Redwoods Conference Grounds in Occidental, California. Led by Miguel Hilario Escobar, Ph.D., and Jim Blake, Chief Executive Officer, ICSE aims to transform the lives of future indigenous leaders through sustainable ecotourism education. 

ICSE offers a comprehensive training framework that combines practical work experience with theoretical education. Our six-month internships provide hands-on experience in various aspects of ecotourism management, complemented by classes taught by esteemed professors from institutions such as Stanford University. This dual approach ensures that participants gain both the skills and knowledge necessary to manage sustainable ecotourism ventures.

 Indigenous communities around the world face significant economic challenges. They are often among the most impoverished populations globally, suffering from the adverse effects of natural resource exploitation and deforestation. Despite these challenges, indigenous peoples play a crucial role in preserving 80% of the world's biodiversity. ICSE seeks to address these issues by leveraging ecotourism to provide economic opportunities and support environmental conservation. 

Resilience: We aim to empower indigenous and ethnic youth globally to become leaders and change-makers within their communities. Our comprehensive education programs and on-the-job training focus on promoting and strengthening cultural, economic, and environmental sustainability.

Sustainability: Through ICSE, we educate tourists about the ecological significance of the Redwood forest and the historical stewardship of indigenous peoples. This initiative promotes sustainable practices and stewardship, fostering an appreciation for these vital ecosystems.

• Cultural Sustainability: Promote the preservation of indigenous cultures and traditions.
• Development with Identity: Support the development of indigenous communities with a focus on identity and self-determination, particularly prioritizing youth and women from rural areas.
• Protection of Lands and Resources: Advocate for the protection of indigenous lands, territories, and natural resources.
• Economic Development: Foster entrepreneurship and economic growth for indigenous youth and women through ecotourism.
• Resilience and Sustainability: Promote cultural and environmental resilience.
• Leadership Training: Train future leaders to become agents of change.

Training Framework: Our training framework is rooted in international policies and governance concerning the rights of indigenous peoples. ICSE offers six-month internships that combine practical work experience with theoretical education. These modules are taught by esteemed professors from institutions such as Stanford University, ensuring the transfer of both practical skills and theoretical knowledge essential for sustainable ecotourism management.

Phases of Training:

• First Phase: Collaboration with existing indigenous-owned ecotourism centers.
• Second Phase: Development of new ecotourism industries through international investments and loans.

Government Partnerships: We collaborate with governments and ministries in Guatemala, Ecuador, Peru, and local authorities in Sonoma County.

Indigenous Partnerships: Our partners include indigenous communities and organizations in Guatemala, Ecuador, Peru, and the Kashia Band of Pomo Indians.

Academic Partnerships: We work with esteemed institutions such as Stanford University, University of California Santa Cruz, Simpson University, Sonoma State University, and Santa Rosa Junior College.

Corporate and Non-Profit Partnerships: We engage with corporate and non-profit entities to gather resources and support for our initiatives.