About UPLAO
Nurturing Communities, Preserving Nature
The natural landscapes of northern Laos face significant threats. Generations of ethnic minority communities have relied on slash-and-burn agriculture, a practice that has resulted in extensive deforestation and alarming biodiversity loss. Compounded by the rising dependence on mono-crop cultivation, these practices perpetuate environmental degradation, leaving the upland communities vulnerable and their livelihoods precarious.
Since 2018, UPLAO has stood firm in its commitment to upland communities, endeavoring to guide and support them in transitioning towards more sustainable practices. Our aim is not just to offer guidance but to foster a harmonious coexistence between these communities and the delicate ecosystems they call home.
Sustainable Agriculture Transformation
At UPLAO Foundation, we’re dedicated to empowering upland communities, fostering sustainable agriculture, and leading impactful reforestation efforts. Join us in creating lasting change and preserving our environment.
Meet the UPLAO Team
Mr. Sandor Scheeres
With a passion for sustainable development and rural empowerment, Sandor Scheeres is the driving force behind UPLAO.
Mr. Vongchanh Raxamountry
Bringing a wealth of experience from working with the EU and the FAO in Laos, Mr. Vongchanh Raxamountry serves..
Mr. Chang Vaipided
With a passion for sustainable development and rural empowerment, Sandor Scheeres is the driving force behind UPLAO.
Sustainable Agriculture Transformation
UPLAO focuses on transitioning traditional slash...
Community Empowerment & Livelihood Diversification
UPLAO empowers upland communities by...
Reforestation & Biodiversity Conservation
The foundation actively engages in reforestation...
Community-based ecotourism
The foundation embraces community-based ecotourism...
How We Do It
At UPLAO, we are dedicated to empowering communities while diversifying livelihoods through our organic agroforestry model. Our commitment extends to ensuring sustainable development, preserving biodiversity, and promoting reforestation efforts, ensuring a harmonious relationship between people and nature.
Explore our currently funded projects
Mr. Sandor Scheeres
With a passion for sustainable development and rural empowerment, Sandor Scheeres is the driving force behind UPLAO.
Mr. Vongchanh Raxamountry
Bringing a wealth of experience from working with the EU and the FAO in Laos, Mr. Vongchanh Raxamountry serves..
Mr. Chang Vaipided
With a passion for sustainable development and rural empowerment, Sandor Scheeres is the driving force behind UPLAO.
Reinforcement Of Commercial Capacities
The sub-project titled “Enhancement of Organic Coffee Production and Continuing Support of the Farmer Organization of Namvang, Viengphouka” aims to empower coffee farmers in Namvang village, Luang Namtha province, Laos.
Transforming Lives Through Education
Viengsang village, home to a vibrant mix of ethnic communities, relies on agriculture and manual labor for sustenance. Yet, its educational infrastructure falls short, hindering the growth and development of its youth.
Shade-Grown Coffee Cultivation In Thonglad
This project seeks to empower the Akha community through sustainable coffee cultivation, contributing to their economic prosperity and environmental sustainability.
Solar Power Installation
This proposal aims to equip the coffee processing center in Namvang village, Laos, with solar power infrastructure. Situated in a rural area, the center serves as a vital hub for local coffee farmers, facilitating processing activities crucial for their livelihoods.
Water Purification Center
In Namvang Village, home to around 600 residents from the Hmong and Muser ethnic minorities, obtaining clean drinking water presents a significant challenge. Our initiative seeks to address this issue by setting up a water purification center and drilling a well.
Thonglad Clinic
The Thong Lath Health Center project aims to construct a vital healthcare facility in Thonglad Subdistrict, Laos, serving six marginalized communities. With a focus on providing accessible and comprehensive medical services, the center will improve health outcomes.
Our Mission
UPLAO is dedicated to fostering sustainable livelihoods and preserving the natural landscapes of northern Laos through the cultivation of organic, shade-grown coffee. Our mission revolves around empowering upland communities, promoting sustainable agriculture, and conserving the environment, guided by a commitment to ethical practices, community development, and environmental preservation.
Our Vision
UPLAO Foundation envisions a future where upland communities thrive sustainably, embracing their cultural heritage while fostering economic growth in harmony with nature. Our efforts are dedicated to creating a resilient and vibrant landscape where both people and the environment flourish together.
Our Foundation's Inspriration
At UPLAO, our journey is fueled by a collective passion for sustainable development and rural empowerment. Founded by a team of dedicated individuals, our foundation stands as a beacon of hope in the lush landscapes of northern Laos.
A Journey Ignited by Purpose
Driven by a profound commitment to fostering positive change, we have embarked on a transformative journey, bringing diverse backgrounds and experiences to the forefront as we dedicated ourselves to community-driven initiatives. Witnessing firsthand the struggles of upland communities and the encroaching threat on their traditional landscapes, the birth of UPLAO emerged from a deep-rooted desire to make a difference.
Empowering Communities Through Sustainable Practices
UPLAO was conceived from a vision to empower upland communities through sustainable, organic practices. With a focus on coffee cultivation, our approach emphasizes organic farming practices, leveraging the unique stories and cultural heritage of ethnic minorities, and skillfully marketing their produce to elevate its value.
Our Commitment to Sustainable Development
At UPLAO, we transcend the label of a mere coffee enterprise. We are champions of sustainable development, dedicated to nurturing communities, preserving precious landscapes, and fostering a thriving, equitable future for all.
Get involved
Help us provide a sustainable future to these communities. Each project, each village and each idea requires all of us to think of the future and our planet.
Feel Free To Contact us
For more information about our services please contact us. We look forward to hearing from you.
