Planting Seeds of Collaboration
In the lush landscape of Savannah, Georgia, a new chapter in community empowerment and sustainable living is unfolding. Building upon the success of the Bantaba in San Diego, my longtime friend and fellow gardener, Litus Marshall, and I are thrilled to announce the expansion of the Bantaba movement to Savannah. Our collaboration with Savannah State University's community garden aims to support existing efforts, raise awareness, and empower as many communities as possible.
Forging Bonds Through Shared Roots
My friendship with Litus is a cherished bond that has endured the test of time. We first crossed paths back in university, where our shared membership in the international student club laid the foundation for a lasting connection. Hailing from St. Croix of the US Virgin Islands, Litus brings with him a wealth of knowledge and passion for growing food, a skill deeply ingrained in his upbringing. Over the years, our friendship has blossomed into a rich mosaic of laughter, shared stories, and countless unforgettable experiences spanning over a decade. Joining forces with Litus to pursue common interests is always an exhilarating adventure, filled with the promise of new discoveries and shared passions.
Nurturing Existing Roots
The Bantaba is not merely a gathering; it's a symbol of unity and resilience. Inspired by the Mandinka tradition of communal gathering spaces, the Bantaba fosters connections and promotes sustainable practices through gardening. Our journey to Savannah began with a shared vision to amplify this ethos and extend its benefits to new horizons.
Partnering for Progress
Partnering with Litus and by extension Savannah State University, we saw an opportunity to merge our passions and resources. Through this collaboration, we aim to bolster existing initiatives, raise awareness about the importance of community gardening, and empower individuals to take control of their food sources.
Seeds of Opportunity
Central to our collaboration is the availability of plot rentals through the university's International Education Center, open to students, faculty, and staff. By providing access to gardening space, tools, and resources, we hope to encourage more people to engage in sustainable practices and cultivate their own food.
Cultivating Community Beyond Campus
However, our efforts extend beyond the university campus. We're committed to inclusivity and outreach, inviting all members of the Savannah community to join us in our gardening endeavors. Through workshops, events, and a wealth of resources, we aim to educate and inspire individuals from diverse backgrounds to embrace gardening as a means of self-sufficiency and community building. Signup to our email list to learn more about upcoming events!
Sowing the Seeds of Change
As we embark on this journey, we are filled with gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with Litus and the Savannah State University Community Garden, and contribute to their existing efforts in community gardening. Together, we aspire to raise awareness, foster connections, and empower individuals to embrace sustainable living practices.
Join Us in Cultivating Connections
If you're interested in joining us or starting your own Bantaba, we welcome you to reach out to us at hello@onyekatefari.com. Additionally, we're excited to share seeds from our seed library to kickstart your gardening journey. Your support is invaluable, and donations of seeds are always appreciated. To send seeds to our seed library, label and ship seeds to the following address:
Onyeka Tefari Wellness and Spa
8755 Aero Drive Suite 225
San Diego CA, 92123
Together, let's bridge communities, raise awareness, and empower individuals to cultivate a greener, more sustainable future for all.
