An environmentalist, political activist and tribal chief, Almir Narayamoga Surui, 34, has been fighting to save both his Surui tribe and the Amazon rainforest for more than 15 years. Almir’s efforts are credited with almost single-handedly bringing his tribe back from the brink of extinction. His opposition to logging, mining and other development interests in favor of sustainable ventures has made him the target of death threats but, as Almir explained in March 2007, “I rely on the spirit of the forest to protect me.”

Chief Almir has also developed numerous partnerships, to improve the lives of his people and protect their rainforests by combining traditional knowledge with modern science and technology. The Surui partnered with the Swiss NGO Aquaverde tto help them reforest areas that have been devastated by illegal loggers. Most recently Chief Almir partnered with the Amazon Conservation Team and Google Earth Outreach to help bring the internet and GIS technology to his people.

Recently, Chief Almir was featured in the award-winning film ChilDr.en of the Amazon, produced and directed by Denise Zmekhol.

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