NOCA Annual Student Program
Each year, NOCA brings together students from Colegio Boca de Nosara and Del Mar Academy through creative, hands-on learning experiences that foster collaboration, environmental awareness, and community engagement.
Working alongside artists, educators, and community members, students contribute to initiatives such as the Parque Comunal de Nosara — discovering new possibilities while helping shape a shared vision for their community.
Que Tenemos Aqui - the creation of a Love Poem to Nosara
An extraordinary celebration of community through poetry, music, and dance.
Launched in November 2024, Qué Tenemos Aquí — A Love Poem to Nosara brought together local Costa Rican and international residents in a unique creative collaboration celebrating the people, cultures, stories, and spirit of Nosara.
Led by poet Manuel Iglesias, choreographer Jasmin Rituper, and composer Daniel Mora, the initiative began with ten weeks of collaborative workshops, culminating in a memorable live performance in February 2025.
Building on its success, the program continued to evolve, returning to the stage in February 2026 and expanding into the production and recording of Qué Tenemos Aquí — The Album. Under the musical direction of Daniel Mora, more than 40 musicians and contributors came together to create an original collection of music and poetry, now available on Spotify.
More than a performance or an album, Qué Tenemos Aquí is a celebration of what becomes possible when people from different backgrounds, cultures, and generations come together to create something meaningful — fostering new relationships, a shared sense of belonging, and a deeper connection to the community we call home.
Bosque Comunitario Los Espaveles 2025
This year, NOCA’s student program pivoted from trail restoration to a unique opportunity: designing a 5-hectare community park with the NCA (Nosara Civic Association). Sixteen students—eight local, eight from Del Mar Academy - gained insight into sustainable design and conservation.
A visit to a community park in Sámara inspired their own conceptual plans including trails, a dog park, rancho, garden, and much more.
More than a project, this initiative continues to foster youth leadership, cultural connection, and a shared vision for Nosara’s future. We’re excited for what’s ahead.
Somos Uno: A Drum Circle series by local musician Daniel Mora
Meaning "We Are One," Somos Uno brings together both locals and expats to break down social and cultural barriers, fostering a strong sense of community through rhythm.
Using music as a universal language, Somos Uno aims to unite people, creating a space for individuals from all backgrounds to share stories and celebrate the diversity of Nosara. Led by Daniel’s passion for cultural exchange, the program helps build deeper connections, dismantling stigmas and misconceptions.
Through drumming and dancing, Somos Uno embodies the spirit of unity, reinforcing that in Nosara, We Are One.
Rio Nosara Sendero Meraki 2024
Students from Colegio Boca de Nosara and Del Mar Academy came together again for a 5-day program to learn and develop concepts for the trail improvements and nature regeneration along the river bank. The Rio Nosara Sendero Meraki is a long-term annual project which focuses on the trail between Santa Marta and the commercial centre (la Bomba). This program is part of a joint effort between NOCA, the NCA and a number of stakeholders in Nosara. Our objective for 2024 is to complete the planning and logistics, get the necessary approvals and start planting with the NOCA students during the wet season. Stay tuned for more!
Project: Rio Nosara Sendero Meraki
2023
In January 2023, 42 local and international students took part in the 2-week long Rio Nosara Sendero Meraki project, aiming to create a 1.5km trail and linear park along the river from Santa Marta to the commercial center. This project highlights the importance of the Rio Nosara, connecting various community areas, the NCA trail system, and environmentally sensitive land leading to Playa Nosara. Initial support from local stakeholders and leaders has been pivotal in advancing the vision for this environmental regeneration project.
Project: Re-imagining my sustainable Nosara
2020
How do you get 32 local students to volunteer to an intensive week-long design program, to collaboratively re-imagine Nosara as a sustainable community and come up with a plan that promotes cross-cultural exchanges and environmental stewardship?