C.A.T.A., including youth, community members, and staff, attended the 2023 N.O.F.A. Summer Conference at Worcester State University in Massachusetts. It was a great experience. The conference brought together farmers, gardeners, activists, and other individuals committed to promoting organic farming and sustainable agriculture. The meeting was filled with informative workshops, engaging discussions, and plenty of opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals.
Virtual Workshops
The week started with virtual workshops, and the theme was "Buen Vivir," which translates to "good living" in English. The workshops focused on topics like food sovereignty, agroecology, and the intersection of social justice and sustainable agriculture. The speakers were knowledgeable and passionate, and it was inspiring to hear their stories and learn from their experiences.
In-Person Sessions
The in-person portion of the conference was held at Worcester State University, where attendees had the opportunity to attend a variety of workshops and sessions; some of the workshop topics included BIPOC Land Access, Cooperatives in Principal and practice, Soapmaking and Automation for Small Farms and Gardens.
Networking and Exhibits
There were also visit vendors and exhibitors and opportunities to network with other attendees through our table display, informing attendees about C.A.T.A. and the Youth Food Justice Program. There was also a keynote address from Leah Penniman, co-director and farm manager at Soul Fire Farm, who spoke about the importance of justice and equity in our food systems.
Overall Experience
Overall, the N.O.F.A. Summer Conference was a fantastic event that provided attendees with a wealth of knowledge and inspiration. It was an excellent opportunity to connect with others passionate about sustainable agriculture and learn about the latest developments in organic farming.
If you're interested in sustainable agriculture and want to learn more, the N.O.F.A. Summer Conference has posted its recorded workshops online. They are worth watching: Summer Conference 2023 Workshop Recordings | NOFA/Mass (nofamass.store)
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