2024 FARMER OF THE YEAR AWARDEES
The SC Black Farmers Coalition recently recognized four outstanding farmers during its annual conference held March 9-10, 2024 on the campus of Historic Penn Center, St. Helena Island, SC. The SC Black Farmers Conference is designed to bring important information, technical assistance, farming skills workshops, and other networking resources to new and established Black farmers across the state in order to build the capacity of their farms to be more profitable and sustainable across generations. The SCBFC Farmer of the Year Awardees are:
· Leon Dorch (LDJ Farms, Barnwell, SC) was presented with the Young Farmer of the Year award, in recognition of his exemplary efforts to prepare ground, plant seeds, and nurture relationships that represent and inspire a new generation of Black farmers in South Carolina.
· Elise Ashby (RobinHood Group, Union, SC) was honored with the Woman Farmer of the Year award, in recognition of her exceptional commitment to farming, leadership in the agriculture industry, positive impact on issues faced by Black farmers, and valuable service to the community at large.
· Derick Muhammad (Bossville Farms & SkyBossville, Estill, SC) was presented with the Connector Award, in recognition of extraordinary work and genuine commitment to building bridges with Black farmers.
· Cecelia Miller (Thadora Farms and The Coffee Lady 31, Inman, SC), received the President’s Award, in recognition of her sacrificial leadership and service to ensure the stability and success of the SC Black Farmers Coalition.
