Immigrant Entrepreneurship and Foodways in Scarborough: Strengthening Community Food Security and Resilience

Immigrant Entrepreneurship and Foodways in Scarborough: Strengthening Community Food Security and Resilience

When: February 28, 2024- 12:00pm to 1:30pm EST

Where: Hybrid (Zoom) and In-Person at the Suite 204, 220 Yonge Street, Toronto

This seminar is co-convened by Dr. Sara Edge, Centre for Studies in Food Security (CSFS) and Dr. Zhixi Cecilia Zhuang, Toronto Metropolitan Centre for Immigration and Settlement (TMCIS). 

Panelists: 
Howard Tam, ThinkFresh Group, Eat More Scarborough
Suman Roy, Feed Scarborough
Seema David, 5N2 Kitchens

Given growing diversity, migration and racialized inequities in food insecurity, it is essential to understand immigrants’ experiences in re(shaping) and navigating Canada’s urban food systems, to facilitate more equitable food environments. Yet, scholars, activists and practitioners focusing on food systems are often operating in silos from those who are focused on immigrant health and settlement.  There is opportunity to learn from innovations happening at the community level. Scarborough is known for its vibrant and dynamic food scene, influenced by a plethora of immigrant-owned businesses and food initiatives. The community is a reflection of a diverse array of international flavours, culinary traditions, and community-led initiatives. However, despite its cultural richness and dynamic population, Scarborough faces significant challenges related to food insecurity. Many residents still struggle with limited access to affordable, nutritious, and culturally appropriate food. The event will shed light on Scarborough's food landscape, highlighting the vital role of immigrant entrepreneurship and community-based initiatives in shaping Scarborough’s food system. The panel discussion brings together local community activists, practitioners, and community-engaged scholars to explore innovative initiatives that have enhanced food security and built resilience within immigrant communities.
Register to attend and be a part of this collaborative effort to strengthen community ties and promote a more resilient, food-secure future in Scarborough.