About Us
Paulo Cioffi, Founder
A horticulturalist with over seven years of hands-on experience in mushroom genetics and cultivation, Paulo brings a deep knowledge of fungi and food systems. His approach is grounded in permaculture principles, weaving together vegetable growing, land stewardship, and sustainable living. Paulo has acted as Project Lead in Land Regeneration projects across Europe.
Samantha McKendry, Founder
With a background in government and community work, Samantha has dedicated her career to building meaningful connections and supporting vulnerable populations. At Mycorise, she bridges people and projects — bringing a sensitivity to community needs, and combining her skills in stakeholder management with her love for growing and nourishing through food.
Our Goals
01
We see ourselves as stewards of the earth, working in harmony with natural systems to regenerate soil, restore ecosystems, and cultivate abundance.
Serving nature
02
Through workshops, community projects, and shared meals, we give people tools to reconnect with themselves, their food, their community and their roots.
Empowering People
03
Just like fungal networks, we believe in collaboration, connection, and collective strength. Our work is about building relationships that are resilient and life-giving.
Mirroring Mycelium
How it all started
Our journey began in the Canary Islands of Spain, where we managed a land regeneration project. Along with five volunteers and a shared vision, we transformed barren soil into a thriving ecosystem. Soon, 80% of our groceries came from our own garden, and we welcomed groups from around Europe to join us in programs that reconnected people with nature and with themselves.
It was here that Paulo’s years of mushroom cultivation expertise met Samantha’s background in nutrition and community-building. Together, we began sharing not just the techniques of going from spore to more — cultivating gourmet mushrooms and crafting medicinal tinctures — but also the philosophy of living in relationship with the land.
Today, Myco-rise continues this mission, with mushrooms as a doorway to connection, wellbeing, and flourishing communities.