Gareth has worked in development education for over 10 years, discovering a deep passion for permaculture and exploring how it intersects with education, community and spirituality.
Background
Gareth Conlon is the Founding Director of Slí na Chroí, a not-for-profit education centre based in Aughnacliffe, Carrickmacross, Co. Monaghan. Together with partner Jenny Jefferies, he established the centre with a vision of restoring and re-engaging both nature and communities across Ireland. Prior to founding Slí na Chroí, Gareth spent over a decade working in development education across a range of organisations including Comhlámh, Development Perspectives, and ECO-UNESCO. He holds a Master's degree in International Development from Kimmage Development Studies Centre and gained significant field experience in Africa.
Approach & philosophy
It was during his years in development education that Gareth discovered permaculture ; a discovery that would reshape the direction of his work. He became deeply interested in how permaculture design principles, development education, and contemplative spiritual practices can come together to create meaningful, systemic change. At Slí na Chroí, this translates into a holistic approach to generative agriculture. He brings an ecosystem restoration, peer-to-peer learning, and community wellbeing. The aim is always practical ; turning principles into real, measurable change on the land and within communities.
Recognition
Gareth was selected for the prestigious 2023 Impact Programme and Ideas Academy by Social Entrepreneurs Ireland in recognition of Slí na Chroí's growing impact in supporting the agro-ecological local food movement across the island of Ireland. He is also a TEDx speaker, delivering a talk at TEDxDrogheda on the theme of interconnectedness and land regeneration.
