As a writer, editor, social change ink-slinger, and community organizer, I focus on issues issues of sustainability, social justice, and travel. I write on a wide range of topics including urban agriculture & food justice, local community issues, peace & militarism, abuse of corporate power, green sectors, ethical travel, the alternative & sustainable economy, and human rights issues.
My goals are to construct compelling narratives, share undertold stories, motivate people to action, and to place issues within a broader context, linking the local with the global. I believe the power of new social media for positive change and building community is only beginning to be tapped.
My academic background is in philosophy & comparative religions (B.A.) and in Humanities (M.A.), from which I gained a deep appreciation for critical thinking and both our global challenges and shared human experiences. I taught in the Humanities Department (Philosophy, Critical Thinking, Environmental Ethics, Comparative Religions, World History courses) at a community college in Ohio where I also maintained websites, edited the departmental student journal, and was faculty adviser to an issues-based student club.
Before turning westward, I embarked on a 6-month long around-the-world adventure. I relocated to the Bay Area, where I have since been writing about and working for various peace, social justice, and sustainability non-profits and issues. I speak intermediate Spanish and have traveled to or lived in over 15 countries.
I am currently working to develop a companion travel guide series focusing on environmental, social justice, and human rights issues and the communities organizing around them in various countries (starting with Mexico, Guatemala, and India). I am also interested in developing a collective media project that would be a Bay Area news and community hub for local, just, and sustainable economy issues.
For comments or writing assignments contact me at: vanlenning@hotmail.com
