Summary
Conclusiones de las jornadas Rural Conecta 2024 celebradas en septiembre en Castillo de Locubín para impulsar el medio rural
Conclusions of Rural Conecta 2024
Sustainable tourism: beyond the economy, a commitment to territorial pride.
The event began with an analysis of sustainable tourism as a key tool for the promotion of rural areas. In a participatory way, we identified that training is an essential pillar to develop a respectful tourism that not only boosts the economy, but also promotes respect and appreciation of the territory. Tourists become agents of change, generating pride in the environment and promoting its care.
The debate highlighted how the collective imagination associates elements such as the olive grove and the people of the territory with rural identity. However, for the local community, water, the river and heritage are the main differentiating elements for tourism promotion.
2. Digital nomads: a bridge between the local and the global
During the second day we learned about digital nomads, their values and the positive impact they can have on rural villages. This profile is looking for more than technology; it longs for deep human experiences such as the simple gesture of receiving a “good morning” from strangers.
Properly managed by municipalities, digital nomads can attract talent, promote an enriching exchange of knowledge and boost local economies. However, for this integration to be effective, it is crucial that the initiatives emerge from the local level and are aligned with the values and needs of the community.
3. Rural narratives: a blank canvas for creating our future
One of the most enriching moments was the reflection on rural narratives. It was concluded that there is no single rural narrative, but rather multiple possibilities that must be constructed from the territories themselves. At the heart of these narratives are values such as trust, nostalgia, illusion and love, but also challenges such as defeatism, distrust and fear.
The rural world is the place where magic happens: a humanized space that allows people to reconnect with themselves and their environment. We are at a historic moment in which the rural world has the opportunity to play a leading role, defining its own narrative and showing the world its true potential.
4. Rural women: leading change through action and motivation
At the round table dedicated to rural women entrepreneurs, we discovered inspiring stories that defied stereotypes and highlighted how attitude and action can change realities. These women not only generate economic impact, but lead movements with deep motivations, such as collective happiness or the revitalization of their villages.
Rural women are taking up the banner of change, demonstrating that they are drivers of social innovation and transformative agents within their communities.
5. Rural pride: a symbol that brings us together
One of the most emotional moments was the presentation of the Rural Pride flag, designed by Mercedes Conde, a neighbor of the municipality. This symbol encapsulates the essence of the event: to awaken pride in belonging to the rural world, strengthen local identity and celebrate our role in history as inhabitants of a unique environment.
Final conclusion
Rural Conecta 2024 has demonstrated that collaboration, reflection and collective action are powerful tools for transforming rural narratives and building a future in which rural is synonymous with opportunities, innovation and well-being. We leave with the certainty that change is in our hands and with the illusion of continuing to work for a rural world that is alive, diverse and full of possibilities.
If you want to know more about Rural Conecta 2024, listen to the videos of the round tables on our YouTube channel or consult the program of activities here.
