Trailblazers of Change

Planting Seeds: An Inspiring Chat with Elina and Dominic

Have you ever dreamed of ditching the daily grind to wander the world, leaving a trail of positive change in your wake? In our latest podcast episode, we sit down with Elina and Dominic, a dynamic duo who’ve turned globe-trotting into a life mission. Their story is a whirlwind of love, laughter, and humanitarian hustle that will not only inspire you but will also make you rethink your next vacation destination.

It all started with small trips, like a sneaky getaway to Turkey that sparked a yearning for more. From there, they ventured to Guatemala, where Elina dedicated her efforts to volunteering in slum schools, further igniting her passion for teaching. Dominic’s career path took him to Suriname for an internship where he expanded his horizons and learned valuable skills.

But their real adventures kicked off in India, where they lived in the vibrant city of Mumbai for a year. Amid the chaos of traffic jams, tuk-tuks, elephants, and cows navigating the streets, they founded a small school in the slums. Teaching English, math, and theater to 30 kids who otherwise had no access to education, they watched dreams take root. This experience was pivotal, as it opened their eyes to the transformative power of education and community engagement.

Their adventures continued to Malawi, Africa, which became a turning point for their humanitarian efforts. Frustrated by the reliance on unsustainable aid models, they decided to pivot to something more practical: establishing a bakery. Realizing there was a significant demand for bread in a wheat-friendly climate, they raised an impressive €100,000—even amidst a financial crisis hitting just as they returned home—and built “The Little Bakery.” This establishment not only provided jobs but also supplied fresh bread to the community, significantly improving the local quality of life.

Back in Holland, their passion for community service didn’t wane. They channeled that energy into co-directing a local school, which began with just five kids and has now grown to an impressive 35, soon to be funded by the government. Their commitment to creating a slower, more social life amid the rush of modern existence has resonated with many families looking for alternative lifestyles.

Now, with their three children (ages 11, almost 8, and almost 4) in tow, they’re embarking on an epic world tour that will last at least eight months. Their journey will start in Cambodia, then move on to Vietnam, and eventually loop back to the enchanting landscapes of Africa and India. As Dominic puts it, “Traveling is an addiction.” They are on a mission to show their kids the world’s vast differences and the beauty of diverse cultures, while meeting inspiring people along the way.