Dr. Torunn Stangeland

Board Member

Dr. Torunn Stangeland is a Norwegian researcher, educator and community development advocate with a strong academic and practical background in medicinal plants, biodiversity conservation, sustainable natural-resource management and community empowerment.

She holds a PhD from the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), where her doctoral research focused on the ecology, conservation and bioactivity of food and medicinal plants in East Africa. Her research involved extensive fieldwork in Uganda and collaboration with Ugandan researchers and institutions.

Dr. Stangeland has developed a longstanding connection with Uganda through research, community initiatives and partnerships. Her work has included research into traditional medicine and medicinal plants, including studies of plants traditionally used to treat malaria in western Uganda and research on the conservation of medicinal tree species.

Beyond her academic work, she has supported a range of community-focused initiatives in Uganda since the mid-2000s. These have included support for water supply, vocational education, women's training, and maternal and child health initiatives. Her community engagement has involved collaboration with Ugandan academics, health professionals and community organizations.

Dr. Stangeland also has extensive experience in organic cultivation and herbal products. She has worked with medicinal and food plants for many years and has been involved in the development and distribution of organic herbal products, including products sourced from Uganda.

Her professional journey brings together research, education, environmental conservation, traditional knowledge, health and community development. As a Board Member of Viva Caring Hearts Foundation, Dr. Stangeland contributes valuable international experience, scientific knowledge and a strong commitment to initiatives that improve the wellbeing and opportunities of communities.

Her experience and passion for sustainable development strengthen the Foundation's commitment to creating lasting, community-centered impact.