Back in 2019, I spent some time traveling to both off-grid and urban farms in the western US in hopes of finding new experiences and passions. During this journey, I learned a lot about the food justice movement, which really expanded my views on the intersectionality of sustainability movements. My passions have since been intertwined with land access, climate smart agricultural practices, distribution of resources, food accessibility, workers’ rights, and intersectional social justice.
Since coming to Des Moines in 2021, I had the opportunity to co-own a small urban veganic farm, consisting of veggies and mushrooms, while also establishing some small pollinator gardens in the Birdland neighborhood. While I love growing a variety of veggies, I particularly enjoy growing mushrooms, both edible and medicinal.
Besides my interest in urban farming and growing food, I’ve spent some time working with Green Iowa Americorps, where I advocated for clean energy and provided educational materials and energy audits for the community. I also worked with LSI Global Greens as a farm associate, where I helped establish community gardens and climate smart urban farming practices. I look forward to bringing my passions for community and the environment together, alongside my faith, to continue in the fight for climate justice with Iowa IPL.