Kelly Ann Thomas: A Visionary Behind Harmonia
Kelly Ann Thomas is the founder and driving force behind Harmonia, an eco-community and permaculture farm nestled in the lush jungles of Nicaragua. Her passion for sustainability, community building, and environmental consciousness runs deep, cultivated over years of diverse experiences and a profound love for nature and creativity.
Kelly’s journey into sustainable living began long before Harmonia. In 2005, she established El Gato Negro, a socially and environmentally conscious coffee roasting company and bookstore in San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua. Over its 12-year existence, El Gato Negro became an iconic hub for travelers, locals, and creatives from all walks of life. The café was more than just a place to enjoy a cup of coffee; it was a sanctuary where art, literature, and community converged. With over 5,000 books on its shelves, including a vast selection of titles on shamanism, permaculture, indigenous spirituality, and more, El Gato Negro was home to the largest selection of English-language books in a non-English-speaking country.
Kelly’s commitment to environmental responsibility was evident in every aspect of El Gato Negro’s operations. She avoided the wastefulness of disposable items, serving drinks in ceramic and stainless steel cups, and used cloth napkins instead of paper. Organic coffee sourced from her farm and other Fair Trade farms in Nicaragua was a staple. Her attention to detail and dedication to sustainability earned El Gato Negro a loyal following, with many returning time and again to enjoy the unique atmosphere she created. It wasn’t just the ambiance that drew people in—Kelly’s 64-page menu was a work of art, filled with thoughtful essays on health, environmentalism, and quirky insights into the world, making it a must-read for visitors.
Kelly’s talents extend far beyond the café. With a diverse background in faux painting, Venetian plastering, mosaic artistry, and high landscape design, she spent years creating art with plants and contributing to a family-owned 30-acre plant nursery in Phoenix in Sales and as the Marketing and Event Director. Her career has also spanned roles in political and human intelligence, commodities analysis and trading, tax accounting, and mortgage underwriting, showcasing her versatility and adaptability.
Academically, Kelly holds a BA from the University of Maryland with dual majors in Political Science and Psychology, and an MA in International Relations with a concentration in Strategic Studies. Her lifelong passion for learning is evident in her studies of natural medicine, astrology, and her deep interest in exploring the interconnectedness of all things. She has a unique talent for using synastry charts to understand relationships and compatibility, blending her analytical mind with her spiritual inclinations.
Kelly’s life has been a rich tapestry of experiences. Having lived in West Berlin for three years, she stood on the Berlin Wall the day it fell, witnessing history firsthand. She has traveled to 40 countries, absorbing the world’s diverse cultures and perspectives, which continue to inspire her work at Harmonia. Her hobbies—art, cooking, photography, writing, animal rehabilitation, and exploring nature—are all expressions of her creative spirit and her desire to live in harmony with the world around her.
At Harmonia, Kelly is channeling her vast knowledge, creativity, and passion into building a sustainable community that reflects the same curious, joyous, and artsy vibe that made El Gato Negro so beloved. With a focus on permaculture, organic farming, and community building, she is creating a space where people of all nationalities, religions, and belief systems can come together, live in harmony with nature, and find inspiration in the beauty of the jungle.
Kelly’s vision for Harmonia is not just about creating a place to live; it’s about cultivating a way of life that honors the earth, nurtures the soul, and fosters a deep sense of community. With her track record of success and her unwavering dedication to her values, Kelly is poised to make Harmonia a beacon of sustainable living in Nicaragua and beyond.
