We are deeply saddened to share that one our Directors, Sara Venn, recently passed away. As well as founding and leading the community growing organisation Edible Bristol, she was a Director of Bristol Food Producers for the last 9 years.
It’s difficult to describe the impact Sara had through her work and involvement in so many organisations and projects across the city. She was passionate about the transformative impact of growing food, and always willing to stand up and challenge things she thought were unjust. She was tirelessly committed to her work, volunteering so much time to further the agenda of food growing across the city.
Through Edible Bristol she brought colour and life to spaces and lives around the city, growing food in the most unlikely spaces and changing lives as she introduced so many people to the wonders of getting their hands in the soil. She also shared so much of herself and her passion through her writing and speaking work, and loved sharing her thoughts on her social media channels.
She was involved with Bristol Food Producers from the beginning and helped to ground our work around equity and diversity, brought her wealth of experience to conversations around training and land access, and reminded us all that it’s not a real meeting if there isn’t tea. Her openness and honesty kept us on our toes, and her presence at the table will be hugely missed.
BFP Coordinator Steph Wetherell shares her memories of Sara:
“I often described Sara as my work Mum. She would frequently challenge me and question my approach in order to help me better deliver on our aims, but equally always be there when I just needed a cup of tea and a natter. I spent many happy hours on the Edible Bristol allotment with her, putting the world to rights and dreaming of a better world. Her warmth and support got me through some challenging times, and her mischievous smile was always a welcome sight at events across the city.”
BFP co-founder and Director, Ped Asgarian:
“Sara was the most wonderful example of everything we want to achieve in our food system. Passion for justice and equity, a naturally inclusive nature, kindness and fun. I learnt so much from her, and will continue to fight for a just food system that she always wanted as part of the legacy she deserves. We have lost a mentor, leader, ally and a dear friend to so many.”
Our work will continue and forever be shaped by the impact Sara has had on it. Her legacy is far reaching within the city and beyond, and will continue to bloom for many many seasons to come.
You can find out details of the service to celebrate Sara’s life here.