This year’s International Model Forest Network (IMFN) Global Forum in Kemptville, Canada, marked more than just a return after 14 years-it felt like a global family reunion. As Richard Verbisky, Head of the IMFN Secretariat, put it: “Our networks have grown stronger thanks to inclusion.” Delegates from over 40 countries and all six regional networks gathered to reconnect, share, and shape the future of sustainable forest management.
The Mediterranean Model Forest Network (MMFN) had a strong presence throughout the week. On the opening day, we held the 2025 edition of the Med Forum, welcoming representatives from across the region—including, for the first time, Tunisia. The Forum focused on wildfire prevention, biodiversity, education, and community-led restoration, and was enriched by contributions from partners like the FAO, Union for the Mediterranean, and European Commission.
MMFN members took center stage in key sessions throughout the Global Forum, sharing innovations from AI-based fire monitoring to forest festivals and youth leadership. The collaboration with the Mediterranean Youth Task Force was also formalized with a new memorandum of understanding.
As Toni Ventre, MMFN General Secretary, reflected: “Everyone returned...enriched by the knowledge and experiences of others...with the awareness and enthusiasm of knowing they are working together with many other people around the world who share the same goals.” That shared determination was the real heartbeat of the Forum.