Today we’d like to introduce you to Bobby & Derravia Rich.
Hi Bobby & Derravia, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
Black Seeds Urban Farms is a local food movement that has its roots in a desire to grow honest, non-toxic, nutritious foods for Memphians who have little or no access to sustainable foods. We are committed to providing local communities with the opportunity to have access to fresh food that was grown within their community.
Bobby & I have created a space that not only shapes a new outlook on the food we eat but where it is grown. Our core mission is to collectively bring people together to live a healthier lifestyle and to bring awareness to the importance of redefining purpose through people & the planet we live on.
Black Seeds Urban Farms is an all-inclusive, splendid Garden that has a commitment to providing an enjoyable and therapeutic outdoor experience for all. An unconventional garden is a place where a person can come and pick fresh harvest, take a relaxing walk, have event space access, or even just simply contemplate.
Not only does Black Seeds Urban Farms harvest organic vegetables, fruits, and herbs but “We want you to stop by an “outdoor” the way we do it!” The Black Seeds territory was created for all to appreciate, and it has the capacity to do whatever you like!
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Since we started our land project in 2019, we have faced many challenges in the preliminary stages. Prior to the pandemic, we made plans to open in May 2020 but due to the uprise of the pandemic, we opened on July 3, 2021.
Although our initial plans were delayed it has been a blessing in disguise to patiently persevere and build Black Seeds Urban Farms to what it is today.
We’ve been impressed with Black Seeds Urban Farms, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The overarching mission of the Founders of Black Seeds is to improve the overall quality of life for Mid-Southerners by encouraging and promoting healthier lifestyles.
Which consist of various holistic approaches such as healthier food intake, practical spirituality, purpose finding, environmental change, & local empowerments that will paradigm to an evolution of new culture in inner Memphis.
Black Seeds specializes in products and services that can help reorient one’s mind, body, and spirit. Our goal is to be a resource to serve as many people as possible in the Greenlaw community and surrounding areas throughout Memphis with sustainable, delicious foods grown within their neighborhood. The timing is right for starting this new venture.
During these unprecedented times, more people now understand that food security and access are imperative.
\Universally, we are entering a new shift of change and we believe this to be our opportunity to spread love, peace, positivity, wealth, and health across all platforms in Memphis.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
Our Board of Directors for the non-profit side of the business is indeed our backbone. Our Board members are all knowledgeable and professional individuals that keep us motivated, structured, and focused on our goals.
The City of Memphis’ Community Redevelopment Agency has also played a major role in our success. Years ago on our hunt for blight throughout Memphis, the CRA was very influential in assisting us with finding the land that we are located on in Uptown.
Because of their help, we are located in the Greenlaw neighborhood. Being in Uptown has redefined so many things for us and we are so appreciative of our small businesses residing in the Greenlaw community. We have grown to love the community and its residents dearly.
We definitely have to give the utmost credit to our loving family, supportive neighbors, and local Memphians. The love and encouragement are what keep us going.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.blackseedsurbanfarm.com
- Instagram: @blackseedsurbanfarms
Image Credits
Karen Focht and Jade Miller
