All-Inclusive wellness and learning workshop | May 25th - 28th, 2023 | Atlanta, GA
The Future of Food
& Black Agriculture
In May 2023, Chanzo hosted three days of brainstorming with a group of 15 which included farmers, agriculture technologists, scientists, farm trainers, food media experts and venture capitalists. The workshops aimed to leverage their knowledge and experiences to explore challenges and opportunities, and identify potential action items to support black farmers and others in the food supply chain.
Our Key Findings
Do you or someone in network have a proposed solution to any of these challenges?
-— 1. Logistics
Lack of cold storage and distribution from rural farmers in order to support their livelihoods. E.g. Many south Georgia farmers drive an average of 5 hours to deliver their products to a market.
— 2. Funding & Sponsorship
Little to no resources to invest in the infrastructure for farmers who are interested in offering farm tours, hands-on farm experiences, and generally adding accommodations to their farms to facilitate close-to-the-earth, first-hand farm life.
— 3. Research & Education
Gap in knowledge around things like soil health, food studies, seed saving techniques as well as practical hands-on education, mentorship and general support for the next generation of farmers.
Special Guests
-
MATTHEW RAIFORD
CHEF-FARMER, AUTHOR, GILLIARD FARMS
A descendant of the Freshwater Gullah Geechie of Coastal Georgia, Matthew grew up on land that has sustained his family for seven generations. Mathew also holds a certificate in ecological horticulture from the University of California Santa Cruz and The Center for Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems. Matthew's passion lies in creating food memories for others by preparing local, organic, and flavorful foods.
-
RIANA LYNN
CEO, JOURNEY FOODS
Riana is a neo-scientist and technologist that is focused on bringing better data to the world’s biggest food and supply chain problems. She’s currently an angel investor, podcast host, and former Google Entrepreneur in Residence. Riana has been featured in Forbes, USA Today, Inc, Ebony Magazine, Silicon Hills News, MIT 35 under 35, and serves as World Economic Forum 2022 Tech Pioneer.
The Program
-
Welcome & Dinner 6.00pm - 9.00pm | A welcoming, breezy gathering
-
Morning Movement 8.00am - 9.00am | A heart-opening experience
Workshop Part 1 10.00am -12.30pm | A collaborative learning session
Afternoon Expression 2.15pm - 3.15pm | A healing & expansive experience
Workshop Part 2 4.15pm - 6.15pm | A problem solving session
Dinner Under The Stars 7.00pm - 10.00pm | A kiki with community
-
Farewell 10.00am - 12.00pm | An inspired send off
About Serenbe
Serenbe is a wellness-focused community nestled in the rolling countryside on the edge of Atlanta, just 30 minutes from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. Their 900 acres include preserved forestland, wildflower meadows, 15 miles of trails that go by two waterfalls and a large granite outcropping, an animal village, swings and rocking chairs, two pools and a cabana, two hot tubs, croquet lawn, and endless opportunities for relaxing and connecting with nature.
FAQs
Do I need to be in the agriculture industry?
No! If you're looking to rest, unwind and chat progress with community in a beautiful space, this retreat is for you.
Will food be provided?
Yes, all included. Three meals per day plus snacks.
How many people will be attending?
A maximum of 30 attendees. We'll have small group breakout sessions during our learning workshops and you'll always have a customized, hands-on experience with Chanzo no matter what.
What should I bring?
We'll do some morning movement, so bring something comfortable to stretch in. We'll also take a walk around Serenbe Farms. The rest of the time we'll be interacting over meals and in workshops.
What are the accommodations like?
We'll be staying in the Serenbe community homes. All lodging are King rooms with luxurious, in-suite bathrooms.
What if I have questions?
Any questions at all, reach out to Abby@Chanzo.Institute.
