A philosopher of life, Yossi Ghinsberg is a man of passion, fixed resolve and a connector of people. He believes that nothing promotes growth more than an unexpected experience and unconventional thinking. In these times of great challenge and change, his "Power to Survive" message is timely.
Ghinsberg was born and raised in Israel and served three years in the Israeli navy on the Red Sea. During this time, he befriended the Bedouins of the Sinai Desert whose wholesome philosophy and nomadic lifestyle greatly influenced his life's path.
He studied Jewish Philosophy and Business Administration at Tel Aviv University, followed by a comprehensive study of the 'Kabala' in authentic environments. A truth seeker by an inner calling, Ghinsberg continues to study the religions and philosophies of the past and present - including the Ancients, the Classics, Eastern, Contemporary and the Shamanic path.
Ten years after almost losing his life in the Amazon, he returned to the river valley that was the site of his remarkable adventure and made it his home. During this period, he was instrumental in the creation and construction of Chalalan, a model eco-tourism village that inspires the Amazon basin and the world to this day. His work with indigenous Amazon tribes contributed to the creation of the Madidi National Park, the largest biosphere conservation belt in the Amazon.
The next phase of his life was dedicated to the treatment, rehabilitation and reintegration of opiate addicts throughout the world as Vice President of The Center for Investigation & Treatment of Addiction (CITA). Ghinsberg promoted a new approach to the treatment of opiate addiction, establishing 12 treatment and research centers around the world from Mexico to China. He also founded 'The Alma Libre Foundation' based in Australia, dedicated to assisting opiate addicts in their re-integration to society.
Since that time he has initiated several different business ventures and published two books and two albums of original music. He has been involved in grassroots efforts for reconciliation and healing in the Middle East.
Today he is the founder of a new interior and landscape design label "collecteco" which represents his never ending roaming of the planet, his commitment to ecology, his connection to nature and his respect for indigenous cultures.
Credentials
Best Selling Author - Jungle and Laws of the Jungle
Discovery Documentary entitled "I Shouldn't Be Alive"
Founder of the new interior and landscape design label "collecteco"
Founder and Director of EthnoBios S.A., a Bolivian bio-diversity prospecting company
Founder of Chalalan a model eco-tourism village
CEO of an Israeli / Arab Reconciliation Festival