New Roots Institute reposted this
🌱Planting New Roots 🌱 This summer, I had the privilege of being part of the New Roots Leadership Academy—a transformative 8-week experience. The academy brought together over 80 fellows from different backgrounds, all united by a shared commitment to making a difference. The diversity of perspectives provided a global view of the challenges we face and the solutions we can create together. Throughout the program, we delved into the complexities of factory farming and explored its connections to the environment, animal welfare, public health, and social justice. We had the chance to learn from nearly 70 experts from diverse fields, and I left each session feeling more informed, inspired, and ready to take action. Some of the sessions that stood out to me were 🌟 "Seeding Innovation" with T.K. Pillan, founder of Veggie Grill by Next Level and GroundForce Capital 🌟 "The Power of Communication and Language" with Colleen Patrick-Goudreau, host of the Food for Thought podcast and founder of The 30-Day Vegan Challenge 🌟 "How One Little Nugget Can Change the World" with Christie Lagally of Rebellyous Foods These conversations gave me practical tools to apply in my work and inspired me to think more strategically about how I can contribute to this movement. One of my biggest takeaways? Activism isn’t a one-size-fits-all journey. We all have unique strengths, and the best way to create change is to lean into what drives us. 🌍✨ Thank you Becca Rogers for encouraging me to apply and being an incredible source of support throughout the program. I also want to thank my group leader David Burnett and my cohorts Sophie Cazares, Avani Srikanth, Bruni Fischer, Madisyn Gaither, Olman Pineda, Bhart Lal, Rebecca Zewdie, and Meghan Johnston for providing an engaging space for meaningful discussion. Lastly, I'd like to thank the entire New Roots team (Monica Chen, Lauren Ferrucci, Tanwi Wangikar, Leo Balik, Ryan Gourley, Brece Clark, Rowdy Keelor, Caroline Kraus, Natalie Amezcua, M.A Humane Education, Jesse Tandler, Lucy Whitney, Jessica Cohen, Lilly Smith, Abigail Crawford, Claire Deshaies, Keith Allison, Josh Kidwell, Eleanor (Ellie) Grondin, and Sara Wilson for creating such an inclusive and supportive environment for students to tackle tough topics and become proactive problem solvers. The connections I’ve made and the skills I’ve developed have been invaluable, and I’m excited to continue growing as a leader in this space. 💪 #Leadership #SustainableFoodSystems #Community #Growth #EndFactoryFarming #PlantBased