Grassroots Gardeners Are Transforming Communities

Quick Smiles:Community gardens flourish in unexpected places, uplifting lives from Ukraine to London.The 2025 Lush Spring Prize honors 19 groups pioneering regenerative action with £250,000 support.LION in London empowers BPOC communities to reclaim land and connection through gardening.Gardens are emerging in remarkable locations worldwide, thanks to dedicated land defenders who nurture hope and resilience through nature. These visionaries are reclaiming rights to grow food and strengthen communities, even amid extraordinary challenges.Anastasiya Volkova leads permaculture initiatives in Ukraine, inspiring locals to garden despite adversity. In Zambia, Mugove Walter Niyaka revitalizes farmland and spirits by embracing cooperative traditions. In London, Josina Calliste helps build LION, fostering belonging and land access for BPOC individuals.These changemakers, along with their organizations, are recipients of the 2025 Lush Spring Prize, supporting their vital regenerative work. The prize celebrates pioneers from diverse backgrounds—people often underrepresented in environmental activism—recognizing their transformative efforts.For Calliste, gardening offered solace and purpose, prompting her to address historic land inequalities and inspire others within her community. She found that conversations and healing often started while working the soil together.LION’s growing space in Peckham is a vibrant hub where food is produced, practical skills are taught, and new friendships bloom. Their gatherings and events connect BPOC growers, spark meaningful dialogue, and provide a welcoming space for all participants.Dreams of owning land fuel LION’s long-term vision, with determination and optimism guiding every step. Their story is a powerful reminder that cultivating the earth can also nurture connection and social change.Stories like these inspire us to nurture our own communities and find joy in small acts that make a big difference.Source