Projects Co-Created with Community
Below is a selection of the work I have co-created with the people and communities I live and work in. For more information on how I can work with you, your team or community, connect with me.
Aspirations, Ponderings & Dreams
Research
In November 2023 I completed my Master of Arts in Community Engagement from the University of Alberta. I am currently thinking about when and where to pursue my PhD.
Looking at developing new methods for curated networking. How do we find the right people to move an idea or business forward? How do we connect passions rather than past experiences? How do we make meaningful connections and continue to nurture those over time? Anyone interested in a secret lunch club focused on connection??
Profitability of small scale farms, how do we (or should we) collaborate to ensure viability. What collaboration is and what is isn’t? How to say no to a business relationship that isn’t balanced or beneficial?
Understanding transparency in agriculture – green washing, localism, verification, keeping it local by finding other partners that can replace the not so nice side (hey peatmoss, I’m looking at you) of flower farming. What are the best use options for waste?
Looking at vertical farming, in particular what is the next thing that we can grow indoors that has economic potential? How do we go beyond just growing vegetables to growing value added niche products?
Understanding my relationship with indigenous counterparts. In particular how are we being authentic and transparent with Indigenous culinary and agritourism? How can both of these be used to heal generational trauma?
Work
Most of professional time is right now is spent on driving economic growth at Leduc County, with a special focus on the agri-food industry. Big projects on the go right now include the continue re-development of the former Nisku Recreation Centre into the Business and Entrepreneur Centre. This is a space that fosters an environment of collaboration facilitating the development of local solutions to stimulate economic activity and sustainable development.
Supporting and attracting the next generation of agrifood businesses to the food processing cluster that has emerged in North Nisku is ongoing.
Since July I have been working part time for NABI to develop business programs and engage with and get engaged in community.
I have currently started seeds for our upcoming season and anxiously awaiting spring. We are taking on a few more weddings this summer so if you know someone getting married who needs local flowers (minus the plastic waste, chemicals and air transport) get them to message us. This year we are doubling down on our farm experiences this summer including moon dinners, blooms for two, garden parties and brunchin bloom. We are adding to them and showcasing even more local farms and talent.
I will be speaking at the Forward Together: Tourism in Strathcona County Conference April 2, 2025.
We are not currently taking on new clients. We will be open to new clients in the fall of 2025.
Community
My daughter joined 4H this year which has been such a cool experience to see her learn about and enjoy all the things I also enjoyed in 4H. Up next is our clubs annual public speaking event in February.
What does farm and food education look like in schools? This spring I will be popping up in my daughter's classroom to teach them how to grow their own veggies, watch a set of chicks hatch, grow mushrooms and learn about compost.
Currently working on a project that will recognize and connect inspirational people in the agritourism industry in Alberta. If you are interested in getting involved, connect with me.
Working with a community on understanding systems and how we can integrate projects to solve a number of challenges. One area I am interested in is food waste in rural communities. How we can rescue food, give seniors a purpose, connect youth, and generate a small social enterprise for sustainability. Some of these concepts are being tested in the community of Lac La Biche.
Personal
& Travel
Anyone have suggestions on how to work with a 3 going on 13 year old?? I’m open to suggestions….
Next trip – Scotland (if the stars align). If you have any “must see” places or restaurants send them my way.
When things change you will find out first, right here. Updated February 25, 2025, from Alberta, Canada.
BRYANNA KUMPULA
bryanna@baroafarms.com
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