05/08/2026
Kayon in one of the volunteers at the kitchen garden, at Sir Herbert Leon Academy - and she has kindly shared some words about what it means to her and her son to be involved in the care of the garden.....
“I grew up in a rural village in Jamaica, and ever since moving to the UK at eighteen, I have been searching for a place that offers a real sense of community, camaraderie, and unity. By chance, one morning, while passing the Kitchen Garden with my ten-year-old son, we were invited to take a look around. Months later, my son and I have become regular Saturday volunteers at the garden.
We both love the work, the people, and the friendly, non-judgemental attitude. Of course, we also get to take home some of the produce which we are cooking and eating at home. There is something truly special about eating fresh, organic food that I helped to grow. Watching my son Leonardo eat fresh picked tomatoes, which he always said he hated, was surprising as it was wonderful!
I cannot sing enough praises for the Kitchen Garden. It came into my life at exactly the right time, providing something that helps me stay fit while also supporting my mental wellbeing. It has given me not only a place to grow food, but also a place where my son and I feel welcomed, valued, and part of a community.”
