We recently connected with Shy Palmer and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Shy, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
My journey of thriving in rooms where I’m the only person who looks like me is rooted in intelligence, resilience, and an unyielding commitment to equity and inclusion. Through my work with Reclamation FARMacy, I have translated this personal journey into a mission that empowers people of color in agriculture, ensuring that they are not only present but also influential in discussions concerning food systems and land access. Success, in this context, is not about personal achievement alone; it is about reshaping the landscape for the betterment of all.
Being the only person in the room who looks like me has often necessitated a combination of intelligence and resilience. My intellectual abilities have enabled me to adapt quickly to unfamiliar surroundings, absorbing knowledge and skills that allowed me to thrive. This adaptive intelligence has been my foundation for success, helping me not only understand the nuances of the room but also become a force of change within it.
My journey has been marked by a fierce commitment to advancing equity and inclusion. I recognized that merely excelling individually was not enough; it was equally important to challenge the status quo, dismantle barriers, and advocate for the inclusion of others who shared my background. This unwavering commitment to social justice has not only opened doors for myself but also for numerous others.
In my quest for more inclusion in the world around me, I founded Reclamation FARMacy. This nonprofit organization was born out of the understanding that one of the most critical arenas where people of color remain underrepresented is agriculture. By providing agricultural education and skills training to individuals from marginalized backgrounds, we aim to empower them to take an active role in food systems and land access conversations. Reclamation FARMacy is not just about cultivating crops but also nurturing a sense of belonging and empowerment within an industry where diversity is often lacking. We are collectively planting seeds for a brighter future.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am making a significant impact through my two-fold approach to working with plants. As the founder of the nonprofit Reclamation FARMacy and the owner of Shy’s Fresh Eats, I’m not only bringing fresh, thriving plants and produce into all people’s lives but also fostering a sense of empowerment and reclamation of skills that have been historically held by marginalized communities.
Reclamation FARMacy is more than just a nonprofit; it’s a movement dedicated to teaching agricultural skills to people of color. At its core, this organization is on a mission to improve self-sufficiency, enhance food access, and address disparities in land ownership. The heart of Reclamation FARMacy’s brand is about “reclamation” – a reclaiming and hearkening back to the agricultural skills and knowledge that communities of color historically possessed but have been systemically deprived of.
Through hands-on training, workshops, and mentorship programs, Reclamation FARMacy equips individuals with the tools they need to grow their own food, tend to their land, and take charge of their food systems. It’s a transformative journey that goes beyond planting seeds; it plants the seeds of self-sufficiency, food sovereignty, and equity. The only way we can accomplish this crucial work is by having the necessary funds. Our active fundraiser can be found at tinyurl.com/growfoodfree or on our website at reclamationfarmacy.org.
But I don’t stop at empowering communities through Reclamation FARMacy. I am also the creative force behind Shy’s Fresh Eats, a business that is all about fresh, thriving plants and produce, as well as a delectable range of value-added products.
Shy’s Fresh Eats is the embodiment of my passion for all things green and delicious. Whether it’s garden coaching to help anyone cultivate a flourishing garden or garden design services to transform your outdoor space into a lush haven, I’ve got you covered. Houseplant care is another specialty, ensuring that every corner of your home radiates vitality and life.
However, Shy’s Fresh Eats doesn’t stop at coaching and design. We offer a selection of fresh, locally grown produce that bursts with flavor and nutrition. What truly sets us apart is our range of value-add products, including infused honeys, hot sauces, and infused drinks. These creations are a testament to my commitment to making the most of what the earth provides, infusing every product with a dash of my own unique magic.
With Reclamation FARMacy and Shy’s Fresh Eats, I bring together two powerful brands with a shared vision of empowerment, reclamation, and abundance. While Reclamation FARMacy focuses on teaching agricultural skills and improving food and land access for people of color specifically, Shy’s Fresh Eats delivers the joys of fresh produce and creatively crafted products to all, all while supporting local and sustainable practices.
I hope my work serves as a shining example of how one individual can drive change, not just through my products and services, but by creating a platform for communities to reclaim their heritage and build a more equitable, sustainable future. In a world that often struggles with food justice issues, I hope to serve as a beacon of hope, cultivating a brighter, more inclusive tomorrow.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
The three qualities or skills that have had the most significant impact on my journey are a willingness to learn, adaptability, and unwavering passion.
If you’re early in your journey and want to improve on these skills, for willingness to learn, try to cultivate curiosity about the world around you. Ask questions and seek to understand different perspectives. See failure as an opportunity to learn and grow. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Read books, articles, and explore new subjects or hobbies to expand your knowledge base. Be open to constructive feedback and use it as a tool for improvement. View learning as a lifelong journey, and continually seek new knowledge and skills.
For adaptability: embrace change as a natural part of life. Shift your mindset to see change as an opportunity rather than a threat. Build emotional resilience to better handle setbacks and uncertainties. Stay updated with current trends and developments in your field or area of interest to adapt to new circumstances. Be flexible and open to trying new approaches and be willing to abandon what doesn’t work. Connect with diverse people and professionals who can introduce you to different ideas and perspectives. To build passion, first identify your true passions and interests. Then explore various activities to find what truly excites you. Set clear, specific goals that align with your passions. Having goals gives your passion purpose. Embrace setbacks and challenges as opportunities to demonstrate your commitment to your passions. Surround yourself with people who share or support your passions. This can provide motivation and inspiration. Maintain a healthy work-life balance and engage in self-care practices to prevent burnout and sustain your passion. Visualize your goals and the impact of your passion, which can reinforce your dedication.
Remember, developing these qualities takes time and effort. It’s essential to be patient with yourself and keep a growth mindset.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
We’re seeking donors and volunteers to support our nonprofit and the critical work that we do. The only way we can accomplish this crucial work is by having the necessary funds and workforce. We are seeking partnerships with funders that promote food justice, environmentalism, sustainability, local agriculture, equity and inclusion, and bolstering communities of color. Volunteers are also needed to help with grant writing, accounting, intellectual property work, nonprofit management, and gardening. Connect with us via email at contact@reclamationfarmacy.org or visiting our website at reclamationfarmacy.org
Contact Info:
- Website: reclamationfarmacy.org
- Instagram: instagram.com/reclamationfarmacy
- Facebook: facebook.com/reclamationfarmacy
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/reclamation-farmacy/
- Twitter: twitter.com/reclamationfarm
Image Credits
(Wheelbarrow picture only! ) Queen and Co Productions
