Sharing and learning at the Better Food Traders annual gathering

Sustain member Better Food Traders hosts and annual gathering for members and partners to come together to learn, share, network and look to the future. This year, the gathering was at Penarth Pavilion in Wales and included a spotlight on Wales across policy, trade, entrepreneurship and campaigning. 

Sustain's Diversity Outreach Coordinator, Sareta Puri, and Idman Abdurahaman from Eating Better did a micropresentation on justice and equity in leadership which was followed by a facilitated discussion. This was a first opportunity to share learning from the JEDI (justice, equity, diversity and inclusion) leadership programme with a provocation on what would the food system look like if we won in this area? 

Participants challenged themselves on what justice in their work looks like as it can seem like an arbritary concept that is far removed from the daily life of a grower, miller or trader. They brought forth stellar examples including having flexible working patterns to suit parents and carers to developing and supporting an Ethiopian customer base, demonstrating that their drive to have a sustainable food system was one that aimed to include everyone on that journey. 

This session was complemented by another group led by Dee Woods of Granville Community Kitchen and the African and Caribbean Heritage Food Network on land and property for the people and the need to centre reciprocity, care and repair whilst nourishing community wealth through food systems.

Other discussions included public campaigns making meaningful change centred on Basic Income for Farmers; economic models supporting food security; demonstrating collective impact; and how food partnerships are central to a thriving food system. 

The Real Bread Campaign's co-produced magazine Making a Better Tomorrow was available in print for all attendees. 

The day ended with a collective recognition that being together adds immeasurable benefit to our movement and that together we do have the power to build a more equitable, sustainable food system for all. 

If you're a food trader, you can join Better Food Traders via their website.