Vegoa

Vegoa is a platform and registered association dedicated to making sustainable and ethical living accessible and tangible. Built around the core values of veganism, self-sustainability, and freedom, Vegoa combines these principles with entrepreneurial ambition and creativity. All members agree to a shared manifest that reflects these values, creating a coherent and purpose-driven community. The association's flagship initiative is Vegan Hills, a vegan eco-village located on 104 hectares near Pedralva, Vila do Bispo, in the Algarve region of southern Portugal. Vegan Hills is envisioned as a fully vegan and self-sustainable community that leads by example, demonstrating that ethical and ecological ways of living are not only possible but deeply rewarding. Central to the Vegoa community is a unique governance model called 'Self-Responsible, Direct Democracy Without Any Leaders'. This system is grounded in four principles: personal freedom, mutual respect, collective responsibility, and transparent rule-making. Decisions are made by direct vote, ensuring every member — regardless of personality or assertiveness — holds equal influence. All meeting notes and minutes are accessible to all members, fostering transparency and preventing power concentration. Vegoa is open to volunteers, visitors, and new members who wish to join and contribute to the community. The long-term vision extends beyond Portugal, with plans to establish multiple vegan and self-sustainable regions across the world. Through its work, Vegoa seeks to inspire individuals and communities globally to embrace a more ethical, plant-based, and ecologically responsible way of life.