Q&A
Questions from the audience, with responses from Leilani Yats, Executive Director of Seeds and Hannah Evans, Senior Analyst at Population Connection
What data shows how reduced population growth improves quality of life and species survival?
Response from Hannah: Great question! There is a growing body of evidence showing that slower or reduced population growth can lead to improvements in quality of life and support biodiversity and species survival. For example, World Bank data show that per capita GDP often increases when population growth slows (also known as the “demographic dividend” effect). Further, lower fertility rates often lead to smaller family sizes, which increase investments in each child’s health and education. For example, in Iran, a rapid decline in fertility in the 1990s led to higher female literacy and more widespread access to reproductive health. Reduced fertility can also ease pressure on housing, healthcare, and education systems, while lessening pressure on the environment (less demand for food and natural resources like potable water). Here’s a great resource on the ways in which demographic trends and future world population growth will affect biodiversity and species extinctions.
You mentioned a few family planning organizations you partner with. Since smaller families are key to sustainability, would you consider adding contraception education and access to contraception as part of your communication strategy?
Response from Leilani: This is such a great question. We currently focus on nutrition education and planting home gardens; incorporating family planning education could help families better manage resources and improve their well-being. However, this requires respectful community engagement and partnership with trusted local health organizations. That’s why we value our partnership with groups like WINGS/ALAS or Maya Health Alliance. Both organizations specialize in female reproductive health, family planning, and related services to support rural communities like those we serve, which makes our collaborations essential for improving service offerings without overexhausting our teams.
What aspect of the topics you teach at Seeds do you think is the most important for families?
Response from Leilani: The Seeds for a Future Program was established to reduce malnutrition rates and instances of nutritional diseases by enhancing food security and nutrition education. In this, nutrition education is a significant cornerstone of our work, particularly in teaching families to understand nutrient-rich foods and the importance of a balanced diet, as this reduces the long-term impact of preventable nutritional diseases. Combined with practical regenerative gardening skills, families gain the ability to grow sustainable, nutritious food, boosting food security and overall health. Together, these educational and practical skills have the most significant impact on families.
Do you have to adapt what is planted due to the changing climate? Are you teaching about that?
Response from Leilani: Adapting planting methods is essential due to climate change. We teach families to grow drought-resistant and fast-growing plants, and utilize techniques such as mulching and rainwater harvesting to maintain productivity. We also help implement solutions such as hanging gardens, raised beds, and container gardening to protect plants from heavy rain and intense sun.
What specific plants are best to combat child malnutrition?
Response from Leilani: In Guatemala, some nutrient-dense plants that we plant to help combat child malnutrition include:
- Beans and legumes (high in protein and fiber)
- Amaranth and moringa (rich in vitamins A, C, and minerals)
- Sweet potatoes (excellent sources of vitamin A)
- Squash (provides essential vitamins and minerals)
- Quinoa (a complete protein and rich in nutrients)
Additionally, below are some Guatemalan-grown herbs families can use to support children’s health by making teas and broths:
- Papaya leaf (supports digestion and immune health)
- Chamomile (calming, good for digestive comfort and sleep)
- Lemongrass (zacate limón) (antimicrobial and soothing for stomach issues)
- Epazote (used traditionally to aid digestion and reduce gas)
- Boldo (supports liver and digestive health)
These plants and herbs are readily available locally and can be incorporated into diets and home remedies to support children’s nutrition and health.
Any advice for someone like me who is considering retiring to someplace like Guatemala?
Response from Leilani: First, sign up for Duolingo and start learning Spanish if you haven’t already done so. This will help you connect meaningfully within your community, facilitating a smoother transition into your new home. Second, I would recommend researching, understanding, and respecting local customs and traditions, as you’re moving to a country rooted in community connection and tradition. Be prepared to adapt to a simpler lifestyle with different infrastructure, meaning that the majority of daily norms move at a slower pace and are completed in due time. There is a joke that losing your temper and becoming impatient is a signal of immaturity for locals. Connect with local NGOs or community groups to explore opportunities for contribution or volunteering, as there’s no better way to get to know your community than by diving in and becoming a contributing part of it. I’d welcome a deeper conversation if you’d like to speak more!
Are there any opportunities to volunteer in these communities?
Response from Leilani: We welcome volunteers, but coordinate in advance to ensure their goals and timelines fit the needs of small rural communities. Like Hannah from PopConn, volunteers join our team to learn the program’s details and connect with beneficiaries. It’s vital that volunteer efforts are realistic and respect the dignity of those we serve. Aside, we always welcome the opportunity to connect with volunteers and find ways for them to be impactful in supporting our mission, both in Guatemala and virtually.
Leilani Yats serves as the Executive Director of Seeds for a Future in Guatemala, where she leads programs focused on improving food security and supporting rural families. Starting her career in the for-profit sector, Leilani gained experience in project management and business strategy before her global travels inspired a shift toward nonprofit work.