Feeding Ourselves Gathering 2025 in Cloughjordan

In April, Co-operative Alternatives made the trip down to Cloughjordan in Co. Tipperary to join this year’s ‘Feeding Ourselves’ event. Along with our amazing colleagues from BenVista Farm CSA (Barry Ferguson) and Carrick Greengrocers (Lee Robb), we spent three incredible days connecting with others who share our passion for sustainable food systems.

Over the course of the event, we heard from local producers, community food initiatives, and land researchers, all highlighting the huge challenges we face in building a fair transition—one where farmers can thrive and fresh, local food is available to all. We were also able to share some of the learning we gathered with our Cultivating Community Farming project in NI.

One of the standout discussions focused on the skills needed for short supply chains and local food advocates. It became clear that community knowledge and the ability to collaborate are just as important, if not more so, than technical know-how.

We were also blown away by an inspiring presentation from Joshna Maharaj, author of “Take Back the Tray”. She showed how something as simple as shifting procurement policies for schools and hospitals to prioritise local, fresh food can transform nutrition while also adding social and economic value. Such a brilliant example of progressive thinking in action!

If I had to describe the gathering in one word, it would be ‘emotional’ this year. Two powerful international connections really stood out. Dr. Rupa Marya shared the transformative Farming is Medicine project, rooted in the wisdom of California’s indigenous communities. Meanwhile, Oliver Moore led a live discussion with Palestinian farming initiatives from the West Bank and Gaza, shining a light on the healing power of farming and the importance of global solidarity.

Finally, the guided tour of Cloughjordan Community Farm was a real highlight. Seeing how they’ve built resilience through seed preservation and innovative growing techniques was nothing short of inspiring.

Thank you and congratulations to Davie Philips, Oliver Moore and all the organisers involved in this successful event!