Black-led urban farming initiative at Concordia’s Loyola campus, rooted in principles of food sovereignty, agroecology, and community care.
STATUS: LIVE
SOCIAL: @sankofa.cooperative
WEBSITE: https://www.sankofafarming.com/
UNIVERSITY: Concordia University
Address: C7075 Rue de Terrebonne, Montréal, QC H4B 2Z3
Contact: hello@sankofafarming.com
ABOUT THE PROGRAM:
Sankofa Farm is a Black-led urban farming initiative rooted in principles of food sovereignty, agroecology, and community care. The project focuses on growing culturally relevant, nutritious food while creating spaces for education, healing, and reconnection to land.
“Sankofa” reflects the idea of learning from the past to build a better future, which is central to the farm’s approach—reclaiming food knowledge, supporting marginalized communities, and strengthening local food systems.
The farm operates through collective work, volunteer engagement, and partnerships, contributing to a more just and accessible food system both on and beyond campus.
PHOTOS:
KEY CHALLENGES:
- Access to stable land and long-term growing space
- Seasonal limitations (climate constraints)
- Funding and resource sustainability
- Balancing community programming with production capacity
- Supporting marginalized communities with limited resources
KEY SUCCESSES:
- Centering community and culture in food production
- Combining farming with education and activism Building strong partnerships across campus and community networks
- Creating spaces that are inclusive, healing, and empowering
SERVICES:
- Fresh produce (seasonal distribution)
- Farming and volunteer opportunities
- Workshops on agroecology, food justice, and land-based practices
TIMELINE
- 2020–2021 – Founded as a Black-led, community-based urban farming initiative focused on food sovereignty.
- 2022 – Expanded farming activities, volunteer engagement, and educational workshops.
- 2023 -Built collaborations with campus and community food organizations.
- 2024–2025 –
Strengthened role within the Concordia Food Coalition network and supported student-led food initiatives. - 2026 -Continued growth in programming, partnerships, and community impact.
GET INVOLVED
- 🌱 Volunteer on the farm
Help with planting, harvesting, and maintenance. Usually held on Tuesdays (3 PM – 7 PM) and some Wednesdays.
- Sign-Up/Registration: volunteers should fill out a community agreement form, typically found in their Facebook or Instagram linktree.
- Afro-Indigenous Volunteer Days: Specialized sessions for Afro-Indigenous Black individuals occur every other Sunday from 10 AM to 3 PM.