Culturally sensitive urban farming in the United Kingdom
Urban farming goes beyond cultivating crops; it fosters connections, community-building, and cultural exchange. In a conversation with Alex Hannah lead at Greens for Good in Liverpool, the depth of this practice as a tool for social impact, especially for immigrant communities, became evident.
Alex highlighted his work with local food banks, which serve a variety of immigrant groups, each with distinct cultural food preferences. “A big challenge in the UK,” Alex shared, “is that food banks often distribute items like pasta or tomato sauce, which many African or Caribbean families aren’t accustomed to using.” Recognising the importance of food in preserving cultural identity, Alex and his team sought input from immigrants on the types of produce that reminded them of home.
Food as a key to cultural identity
A particularly moving story involved an Ethiopian woman who had been unable to find a beloved vegetable called Amara, similar to garlic and kale. After she mentioned it, Alex’s team took on the challenge of growing it. Six weeks later, they surprised her with a fresh supply, bringing her to tears.
This illustrates how urban farming can support immigrant integration, by not only feeding people but helping them reconnect with their cultural roots. The emotional nourishment provided by culturally familiar foods can make a world of difference for those navigating new environments.
Connecting communities through shared cooking
Beyond growing food, Alex’s project brings people together through cooking workshops, often led by chefs from various cultural backgrounds. These sessions create space for people to share their culinary traditions and learn from one another. “We encourage people to cook with each other, not just for each other,” Alex explained. This collaborative approach breaks down cultural barriers and builds bonds over shared meals and experiences.
Inspiring future generations
pexeChildren are central to this exchange of culture and knowledge. Alex shared how kids in their urban farming programs are deeply aware of environmental and social issues. “They’re shocked by what’s been done to the planet, and they’re eager to fix it,” he said. These programs not only teach children how to grow food but also inspire them to take action, including writing to local politicians demanding change. Through this engagement, urban farming empowers the next generation to drive positive environmental and social change.
A global learning exchange
Alex also emphasised the mutual learning that happens within the global urban farming community. “Every day is a school day,” he said, expressing his enthusiasm for sharing ideas and learning from diverse cultural practices. In return, he’s eager to share his experiences around culturally sensitive food production and the role of urban farms in strengthening communities. Alex sees the potential for this approach to inspire others worldwide, offering a blueprint for how agriculture can intersect with social impact.
Alex Hannah’s work in Liverpool highlights the broader potential of urban farming to build meaningful connections, particularly within immigrant communities. Through food, people can find comfort, familiarity, and belonging, while also coming together to create more inclusive, resilient neighborhoods.
