As the days grow colder and the first signs of frost settle across the fields, we find ourselves slowing down, taking a much-needed pause, and reflecting on the invaluable lessons we have learned from another remarkable season of farming. It is a time to appreciate both the challenges and triumphs that have shaped this year’s work and to look ahead with new insights for the seasons to come. Lisa Willott and Jules Cundari, our Vancouver Island BC Seed Security Program Coordinator and Assistant, completed processing the seeds for the season and delivered the last batch of dehydrated Calendula flowers and 100 lbs of celeriac to the Victoria Native Friendship Centre. Over the course of the year, we were happy to deliver over 1200 lbs of produce that was distributed to clients and used for community meals.

In addition to these accomplishments, we have been reflecting on ways to improve and expand next year’s harvest for the Iyé Culturally Relevant Crops Project. We want to focus on increasing yields, improving crop resilience, and deepening our knowledge of the land and its cycles. The goal is not just to grow food, but to grow with purpose—ensuring that the crops we nurture are aligned with the cultural needs and traditions of the communities we serve. With this season’s end comes a sense of fulfillment, but also a renewed commitment to growing and learning. As we prepare for the winter months, we are already looking forward to the next planting season, carrying forward the lessons of this year and the hope for even greater successes in the seasons to come.

We were honoured to be invited by Iyé Creative to the incredible event Roots and Resurgence – A Celebration of Food, Land and Culture. It was a night of delicious food, meaningful conversation and deep connection to the land and to those who nourish it. We got to taste some incredible dishes prepared by incredible food makers, such as tamales by Karina and Mario, Thai moon cake by Songsee, and falafel wraps by Hiba from Caravana Cafe, to name a few.

The event also featured The Table Talk, a thoughtful discussion led by Parker Johnson. Lisa joined Ariel RA (co-founder of Iyé Creative), Ash Whelan (of FED Urban Agriculture) and Solara Goldwynn (Royal Roads University’s food systems manager). There was an incredibly thoughtful discussion on growers’ experiences, financial and land barriers for farmers, and highlights of growing culturally relevant foods as part of the Good Food Box Program.

It was a powerful evening of reflection, learning, and collaboration. We left feeling inspired by the incredible work being done to strengthen local food systems and celebrate the cultural diversity that shapes them.