A note from our Communications Director, Kelly:
Dear RFRS Community,
I’m often reminded by our storytellers of the power of single moments to create unexpected ripples in our life journeys.
I met RFRS founder Pei-Ru Ko in 2016 at a gathering of food entrepreneurs dedicated to finding more sustainable ways to package their products. I left the conversation inspired by her vision for a vibrant local food community connected through story and eager to attend my first gathering.
Not long after, I had the privilege of listening to Brahm Ahmadi share his dedication to opening a community-centered grocery in West Oakland. I’ll never forget the glow I left with, and as I drove back across the bridge, I knew that this was the community I had been looking for. Soon, I started working with RFRS as a volunteer and formally joined the team as the Communications Director in 2018.
Since 2016, RFRS has grown leaps and bounds. Ticketed events in Pei-Ru’s living room morphed into monthly free gatherings hosted by generous partners like Thumbtack and General Assembly. Gatherings of 30-40 grew to gatherings of 60-100. We launched a podcast, The Curious Eater, hosted three StorySlams, developed Facilitating Stories for Impact, and welcomed our first cohort of volunteer facilitators.
In the past four years, I’ve listened to over 70 changemakers share their personal stories. Each vulnerable narrative has impacted my food journey in one way or another. A few examples:
Sana Javeri Kadri prompted a sourcing audit of my spice cabinet
Nik Sharma instigated a closer look at the diversity of my cookbook shelf and food media follows
Jorge Saldana, Tracy Harding, and Javier Zamora nudged me to further question how I think about what food should cost
Finn and Lauren of Steadfast Herbs reignited a fledgling interest in herbs and plants as medicine
Meanwhile, 2020 brought us more of a tidal wave than a ripple. Between a global pandemic, a civil uprising for Black lives, and devastating wildfires across the West Coast, we’re reminded that our liberation is tied together. Collectively, we’re being called to let go of systems of exploitation and follow those who are leading the way to a more just and regenerative economy.
Personally, it means following a desire to be part of this change as a clinical herbalist, working with individuals and communities to be nourished and strengthened for the work ahead. What began as a book recommendation from Steadfast Herbs evolved into beginning a three-year herbalism program and ultimately stepping down from my role at RFRS.
Leaving the RFRS team is bittersweet, but I am excited about the new role opening up (see more below) and the visions the team has for story in 2021. Seeds of narrative are imperative to growing an informed and inspired movement. Stay tuned for opportunities to dig into your own food story, to continue listening to BIPOC changemakers leading the way, and ways to take action in the present for a better tomorrow.
I’m incredibly grateful for this community of changemakers and curious eaters, and I’m excited to stay involved as a listener!
In gratitude,
Kelly
Narrative Strategist
The Narrative Strategist (NS) will lead the collaborative development and advancement of an inspiring, inviting story that engages us all towards cultivating a just and regenerative economy.
Are you interested in the Narrative Strategist role, or do you know someone who might be? Learn more about the role and how to apply here.