Hope Blooms Interview

#589 Great.com Talks With... Hope Blooms

One of the key ways in which Hope Blooms is empowering youth is through urban agriculture. According to their website, in 2020 they grew over 8000 pounds of produce in their community gardens and greenhouse. This not only provides healthy food options for local families, but it also teaches valuable skills to the youth involved in the program. By learning how to grow and harvest their food, these young people are gaining practical knowledge and building confidence. With the help of the community, Hope Blooms is planting the seeds of change and making a difference in the lives of young people.

In this article, we talk with Kolade Kolawole-Boboye, the Manager of Social Business and Innovation of Hope Blooms, about Empowering Youth for a Sustainable Future.

Changing Lives in Halifax, Nova Scotia

Hope Blooms was founded in 2008 by Jessie Jollymore, a community activist who saw the need to address issues of poverty, food insecurity, and lack of opportunities for youth in Halifax's North End. Jollymore wanted to create a sustainable and inclusive community organization that could empower youth and provide them with the support, tools, and resources needed to succeed in life. And thus, Hope Blooms was born.

The organization's flagship program is its community garden, located in one of Halifax's most disadvantaged neighborhoods. The garden is entirely managed and operated by the youth, who learn about sustainable farming practices, plant biology, and entrepreneurship. The produce grown in the garden is then sold at the Halifax Seaport Farmers' Market, providing the youth with a source of income and an opportunity to showcase their skills and knowledge.

In addition to the community garden, Hope Blooms offers a range of programs and services to support youth, including mentorship, leadership training, cooking classes, and financial literacy workshops. The organization's approach is based on the belief that education, entrepreneurship, and community engagement are essential tools for breaking the cycle of poverty and creating a brighter future for young people.

One of the key strengths of Hope Blooms is its emphasis on community engagement. The organization works closely with local businesses, government agencies, and community organizations to create a network of support and resources for youth. The community's involvement has been essential to the success of the organization, providing a sense of ownership and pride to the young people involved.

In Hope Blooms is an inspiring example of how gardening and entrepreneurship can be used to empower young people and create positive change in the community. The organization's commitment to education, mentorship, and community engagement has made it a valuable resource for youth in Halifax's North End.

Want to know more about Hope Blooms? Make sure to read their stories and to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.