Racial Equity Mini Grant Recipients
The Iowa Food System Coalition is proud to announce the six recipients of our $1,000 Racial Equity Mini Grants. These grants recognize the transformational work that food system leaders are already doing in their communities to create a more just, inclusive, and equitable food system in Iowa.
At a time when diversity, equity, and inclusion are under attack, we remain steadfast in our commitment to building a food system that nourishes all Iowans. We recognize that communities of color have been historically marginalized and exploited by the American food system—one built on stolen labor and stolen land. The road toward a local food system that is healthy, just, and sustainable is long, but we know that progress requires learning from and uplifting the voices of all communities. Together, we can truly “Set the Table for All Iowans.”
Meet the 2024 Racial Equity Mini Grant Awardees
These six inspiring individuals are leading change across Iowa, ensuring that food is not only a source of nourishment, but also a tool for empowerment, connection, and justice.
Zakiya Jenkins – Grace Fitness
Founder of Grace Fitness, Zakiya is dedicated to supporting fitness and nutrition access for socially disadvantaged populations. Her work strengthens community health and wellness while ensuring that all Iowans have the tools to live healthier lives. A committed member of the Iowa Food System Coalition, Zakiya contributed to the Food, Nutrition, & Health Chapter of our food system plan, Setting the Table for All Iowans.
Marianna Cota – Indigenexus LLC
As the operator of Indigenexus LLC, Marianna leads an Indigenous-led creative and consulting company that fosters personal and community transformation in Iowa City. Through her work, she builds bridges between Indigenous wisdom and modern food system solutions, helping communities reconnect with their food, land, and culture.
Jonathan Lawrence – Eat Greater Des Moines & Iowa Farmers Union
A Senior Value Chain Coordinator for Eat Greater Des Moines and an organizer with the Iowa Farmers Union, Jonathan plays a pivotal role in strengthening equitable food supply chains. A dedicated Coalition member, he continues to push for systemic changes that support small farmers and food businesses while ensuring access to nutritious, locally grown food for all Iowans.
Daquan Campbell – We Arose Coop & Waterloo Farmers Market
Daquan is a rising star in Iowa’s food system. As founder of We Arose Coop, he has been instrumental in revitalizing and managing the Waterloo Farmers Market. His leadership is helping to rebuild local food networks, elevate Black leadership in agriculture, and uplift the connection between food and culture in Waterloo and beyond.
Shaffer Ridgeway – Southern Goods
Shaffer is a dedicated soil health advocate, regenerative agriculture leader, and farmer. Through Southern Goods and Grazin’ Cattle, he provides culturally relevant foods for the Waterloo community, growing both livestock and produce. Shaffer serves on the board of Practical Farmers of Iowa and the Iowa Farmers Union, and played a key role in organizing Iowa’s first Farmers of Color Conference in 2023.
Pierre Taylor – The Mill
Pierre is a hardworking entrepreneur who is making an impact in Shenandoah, IA. Through The Mill, he has helped create a year-round indoor farmers market, ensuring local food is accessible regardless of season. He also grows and sells produce, working to scale his operation and expand access to healthy food in his community.
Honoring Leaders, Building the Future
We celebrate these six outstanding individuals for their dedication, resilience, and leadership in building an Iowa food system that prioritizes justice, sustainability, and community empowerment. Their work challenges the status quo and brings us closer to a future where local food nourishes everyone—equitably and sustainably.
Join us in congratulating these incredible changemakers!
Follow their work, support their efforts, and stay connected as we continue to advance a food system that works for all.
