Our story
Another Way (Ένας Άλλος Δρόμος) is a young non-profit organization, established in 2024, with the mission to promote sustainable living and revitalize rural mountain areas.
Our base is the historic Monastery of Poretsou: nestled in the mountains of the Greek peninsula Peloponnese at an altitude of 800 meters, surrounded by forests and rivers, the renovated 17th century building embodies the peace, simplicity, and reconnection with nature that we strive to cultivate.
We aim to regenerate the rural area and inspire people towards a more conscious lifestyle, by facilitating ecological programs, craft workshops, and cultural events. Volunteers are at the heart of our organization. We believe that non-formal (hands-on) education through participation is an important way to manifest our vision.
Our vision
Another Way aims to embody the spirit of European solidarity: (young) people co-creating solutions that respect both people and the planet. We use the tools of the 21st century to renew values that unite, like sustainability, democracy, inclusion and positivity.
By specifically engaging young people in practical environmental and community projects, Another Way seeks to prepare them for a future where they are better equipped to engage with pressing societal challenges such as rural depopulation, climate change, youth unemployment and social isolation.
Our pillars
- Sustainability: Living and producing in ways that respect the environment.
- Education: Learning by doing, sharing knowledge, and encouraging creativity.
- Community: Building strong relationships based on cooperation and empathy.
- Respect for Heritage: Preserving traditional skills, crafts, and wisdom.
Our activities combine manual work, non-formal learning and reflection, enabling our volunteers to develop green skills, technical, social and intercultural capabilities, while experiencing the virtues of community life. Intercultural dialogue is central: young people from different countries live and work together with local residents and artisans, creating a bridge between generations and cultures.
Beyond the practical results, Another Way seeks to offer a transformative human experience. We find that some young people arrive searching for purpose, belonging or direction. Through shared work, learning and community life, the possibility is opened for participants to rediscover confidence, agency and hope. We aim to empower them with a feeling of solidarity, that will stay with them for a long time.
Meet our team
United in shaping a future that is sustainable and balanced, committed to protecting and honoring the natural world that sustains us.
Spyros
Sustainability & Project Management
Spyros is a Mechanical Engineer and MBA graduate and has extensive international working experience in Switzerland, the Netherlands and Greece. But soon, he realised that a city life in a corporate suit was not his goal in life. After travelling for a few years, he got the vision of an ecological hub, where he could promote sustainable living and help revive rural mountainous areas. The abandoned monastery high up in the mountains serves this mission perfectly.
Ilias
Cultural Heritage & Architecture
As a former Associate Professor at the University with over four decades of experience in the conservation of architectural heritage and traditional building methods, he was immediately drawn to the idea of reviving the old monastery as an ecological, educational hub. “I’m very happy to contribute my academic knowledge and practical expertise for cultural preservation, architecture, and community engagement to the mission of Another Way.”
Holly
Regenerative Land Steward & Permaculture Designer
Holly specializes as an environmental designer and regenerative land steward in permaculture, organic and biodynamic horticulture, ecosystem regeneration and water retention landscaping. With extensive working experience in Greece, Portugal, the UK, and the U.S., she has designed and implemented permaculture gardens, edible landscapes, and ecological education programs. At Another Way, she leads the permaculture and land regeneration projects.
Maciej
Chef &
Culinary Educator
Maciej started cooking when he was still a young boy. Now, a professional chef with years of international experience in Norway, Sri Lanka, the UK, and Poland and a graduate of Kurt Scheller’s Cooking Academy, he specializes in fusion cuisine and eco-gastronomy. “At Another Way I focus on natural plant-based cooking, using local, foraged and seasonal ingredients to demonstrate how food can be both nourishing and environmentally symbiotic. I like to experiment with whatever the forest and gardens give.’
Penny
Mentor
Penny is a Human Rights Expert with a solid background in community building and supporting young graduates navigating the path of personal and professional development. Feeling her purpose in and around nature, she is a researcher and project lead on environmental and climate justice issues at an international level. Her hope and dream to add to the revival of her place of origin, two small villages around the Monastery, is being creatively materialized through the activities envisioned and implemented by “Another Way”.
Our ecosystem (network)
At Another Way we view ourselves as part of a wider ecosystem of like-minded organizations, companies and projects across Europe, who are promoting sustainable living and ecological innovations. We collaborate, exchange experiences and knowledge with:
Hopeland
An educational eco-community in Argos cultivating sustainability, regenerative learning, and collaborative community living.
Boulouki
A collective promoting traditional craftsmanship, architectural heritage, and hands-on, sustainable restoration.
Co2Gether
An organization advancing solidarity, social inclusion, and environmental awareness through youth-focused initiatives and education.
Municipality of Kalavryta
Our local municipal partner supporting activities that contribute to the revitalization of rural areas, sustainable tourism, and local cultural life.
Prefecture of Western Greece
Collaborating to promote environmental awareness and regional sustainability initiatives, strengthening the link between civil society and local governance.
Cultural Association of Agrambela
Our close local partner preserving local traditions, organizing cultural events, and supporting community engagement in the Agrambela area.
Nea Guinea
A non-profit organization active in education and practice around sustainability, self-sufficiency, and renewable energy. We collaborate in training programmes and practical workshops.
Roes
A social innovation organization using sports and experiential learning to support well-being, community building, and youth action. In 2025, we contributed to “Modern Odyssey 2,” hosting and educating young participants from across Europe.
Beyond these formal partnerships, Another Way also maintains a vibrant network of educators, artisans, farmers, environmentalists, and cultural practitioners who contribute their knowledge and creativity to our shared mission.
