Roots & Recipes: Exploring Farming and Cuisine of the African Diaspora is an exciting one-day camp designed for teens from diverse backgrounds, taking place on Saturday, September 21st at Linn Benton Community College. This unique program offers students entering 8th through 12th grade an opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich traditions of farming and cooking, with a special focus on the African diaspora.
Throughout the day, participants will dive into the world of sustainable farming with David Barron, owner and farmer at Cross-Eyed Cricket Farms, and board member of The Benton Soil and Water Conservation District. Teens will roll up their sleeves and get their hands dirty in the garden, learning about soil, water, and cultural food staples that have nourished communities for generations.
In the kitchen, Olajumoke Elkanah from Flourish African Mart will guide them through the process of creating a traditional Nigerian dish, offering a taste of the rich culinary heritage that has shaped the African diaspora. This camp goes beyond simply teaching new skills—it’s about honoring the contributions of Black farmers and chefs, and inspiring the next generation to carry these vital practices forward.
Event Details:
Date: Saturday, September 21st
Time: Drop-off at 9:45 AM, Pick-up at 3:00 PM
Location: Linn Benton Community College (Albany Campus)
Who: 8th - 12th graders (2024-2025 academic year) from all backgrounds
Cost: Free
Lunch: Provided. Students will also get to enjoy the dishes they prepare during the cooking session.
What to Expect:
Hands-On Learning: Teens will participate in interactive sessions that cover both farming and cooking, gaining insights into traditional practices and modern techniques.
Culinary Creation: Each participant will have the chance to cook a dish under the guidance of a professional chef, and they’ll get to enjoy their culinary creations in addition to a provided lunch.
Cultural Exploration: The day will also include discussions about the significance of Black farmers and chefs, exploring their role in preserving cultural heritage and promoting diversity in these fields.
This camp is open to teens of all backgrounds, and we encourage anyone with an interest in farming, gardening, or cooking to join us for a day of learning, creativity, and cultural exploration.
How to Register:
Registration is now open! Visit this link to secure a spot. Space is limited, so don’t wait to sign up.
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at director@kincultivate.org.
Thank you to our amazing partners and sponsors for making this event possible.
