Welcome to the Spring Give page for Sankofa Sky Farm! Your support can make a significant impact on various aspects of our innovative research project and the community it serves.
Your donations can be utilized for several purposes, including:
1. Professional Development: Funding researchers' attendance at conferences to further their knowledge and network with industry stakeholders.
2. Basic Needs Support: Assisting students who are facing financial hardships with essential resources like food, transportation, and textbooks.
3. Food Pantry: Contributing to our food pantry initiative, ensuring that all student researchers have access to nutritious meals.
4. Scholarship Funding: Providing scholarships to students to support their educational pursuits and alleviate financial burdens.
5. Equipment Funding: Acquiring necessary equipment and resources to enhance our research capabilities and drive innovation.
Sankofa Sky Farm was founded by Sheyna Burns, a Black-identified student-parent currently majoring in sociology and agroecology at the University of California, Santa Cruz. Sheyna's vision was to create a space where BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) students could enter the field of agroecology on their own terms. At Sankofa, students have the autonomy to create their schedules, and responsibilities are tailored to accommodate their capacities. If students need to take a break from research, they are encouraged to do so and return whenever they are ready.
During our inaugural cohort in Winter 2024, we welcomed 13 undergraduate students from diverse academic backgrounds, including agroecology, computer science, cognitive science, sociology, and more. This diverse group provided invaluable perspectives that have propelled the sustainability and innovation of our research. Our Spring 2024 cohort is set to welcome seven additional undergraduate students. The research carried out at Sankofa Sky Farm serves as a cornerstone for Sheyna's social enterprise endeavor Cultivate, which is aimed at revolutionizing sustainable agriculture by establishing skyscraper farms in both urban and rural communities.
If you believe in an equitable future where all living beings have access to affordable, pesticide-free, nutrient-dense foods, we invite you to support Sankofa Sky Farm's efforts today! Your contribution will help us continue our mission of fostering inclusive research and advancing sustainable food systems. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in our communities and beyond. Join us in leading the next FOOD REVOLUTION!
Vertical Farming Fun Facts:
1. Space Efficiency: Vertical farming maximizes land use. With roughly 300 sq. ft., you are capable of growing two acres of produce, equivalent to the size of two football fields, increasing productivity by 390 percent or more.
2. Water Conservation: Hydroponic systems in vertical farms recycle water efficiently, using over 95 percent less water compared with conventional agriculture.
3. Energy Efficiency: Controlled environments in vertical farms lower energy consumption, with LED lighting reducing energy usage by over 50 percent compared with traditional lighting methods.
4. Year-Round Production: Vertical farms operate year-round, providing a consistent supply of fresh produce regardless of seasonal changes—ensuring food security and stability, and In turn, building resilient communities.
Meet some Sankofians below!
The photo above is our Newton Lab. With your contribution we can transform this space into a vibrant hub for innovation and discovery.*
Thank you for your generosity and support.
*Names of all donors will be placed on our donor wall in the Newton Lab, and on our social media platforms. (Unless you prefer to remain anonymous.)
| Rank | State | Gifts |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | CA | 25 |
| 2 | TX | 1 |
| 2 | OR | 1 |
