Our Work

For generations, the Paiter Suruí have cared for their land because it is their home.

They are an Indigenous people of the Brazilian Amazon who live in the Sete de Setembro Indigenous Territory, a region of forest that spans parts of Rondônia and Mato Grosso. The name Paiter means the true people or the people themselves, reflecting a deep sense of identity and belonging to their land.

Their relationship with the forest is not symbolic or abstract. It is lived every day through shared responsibility, cultural knowledge and decisions made with future generations in mind. The forest provides food, medicine, meaning and spiritual connection.

Thriving Tribes is in conversation with the Paiter Suruí and holds deep respect for their leadership as they continue shaping their future in a world that often moves quickly and leaves little room for care.

A Culture That Continues

The Paiter Suruí are not defined by the past. They are actively building what comes next while remaining grounded in their values and navigating modern systems that were never designed with Indigenous leadership at the center.

Their history includes profound change. For much of their existence, they lived largely independent from the outside world and experienced first sustained contact in 1969. That contact brought disease and disruption, and many lives were lost in a short period of time.

Despite this, the Paiter Suruí have maintained their traditions, systems of governance and strong connection to the land. Today they live across multiple villages within their territory, continuing practices of stewardship that reflect both ancestral knowledge and thoughtful adaptation.

How We Engage

At Thriving Tribes, our role begins with listening and learning.

We are currently in the early stages of building a relationship with the Paiter Suruí, guided by respect, transparency and care. At this stage, our focus is on understanding community priorities, honoring Indigenous leadership and taking the time needed to establish trust.

We believe strong partnerships are built slowly and intentionally. We do not rush alignment or assume outcomes. We are committed to approaching this process with openness, consistency and respect as conversations continue.

Why This Matters

The forest remains standing in large part because communities like the Paiter Suruí have chosen to protect it through practices rooted in traditional knowledge.

When Indigenous communities have access to fair and aligned opportunities, they are better positioned to continue caring for their land while strengthening their own wellbeing. This work protects more than ecosystems. It protects identity, continuity and the ability to choose a future on one’s own terms.

This is not charity. It is respect.

Moving Forward

Thriving Tribes is committed to building long term relationships grounded in trust and accountability. We believe the most meaningful solutions already exist within Indigenous communities.

Our work is about showing up with care, listening deeply and supporting Indigenous futures as they take shape.