In this popular series, NAFSN provides participants with insights and connections to help them identify next steps for their careers in community food systems.
This four-part series for Fall 2024 highlights job creators and others across the food systems profession. This webinar series is offered free of charge and open to the public. 

In this episode, we feature: 

 

Rachel grew up in a small town in rural Indiana, culturally and economically influenced by large commodity farms. While studying geography at Valparaiso University, Rachel realized Indiana has not always operated with commodity ag at its forefront. Through classes in sociology, history, geomorphology, and human geography, Rachel learned of Indiana’s rich history of diversified ecology, indigenous livelihood, and sustainable farming, as well as the impacts of globalization and industrialization on our food system. In the 5 years since graduation, Rachel has worked with a regional beverage distributor, an online farmers market start-up, and now with the Indiana State Department of Agriculture.  She pulls on her passion for a more sustainable food system to power her work with farmers, food buyers, and advocates for growing local.

LOCATION: Indianapolis, IN

Bridgette Byrd, Service Member, FoodCorps

Bridgette recently completed her term as a FoodCorps AmeriCorps Service Member at the Greater Newark Conservancy, where she promoted experiential, project-based learning focused on healthy eating, nutrition, and food justice. Collaborating with classroom teachers, she supported academic learning and aided students' social and emotional development. Through her service, she also pioneered innovative pathways in New Jersey's food systems.

LOCATION: Newark, NJ

Isaac Irriaga, Food for Health Program Coordinator, Wholesome Wave Georgia

Isaac is the Food for Health Program Coordinator at Wholesome Wave Georgia. His dedication
to resilient local food systems is deeply influenced by his experience on his family's avocado
ranch in Michoacán, Mexico. His graduate research focused on social media and marketing
strategies for urban farms, reflecting his commitment to combating food insecurity.

LOCATION: Atlanta, GA