Rooted in Culture
Driven by Food Sovereignty
Reclaiming our heritage, one meal at a time. We are building the infrastructure for a future where our communities thrive.
From Ancestral Knowledge to Modern Advocacy
Our journey began with a simple but profound question: How do we reclaim our food systems? For too long, the contributions of African and Caribbean communities to global agriculture have been overlooked, while our access to culturally appropriate, fresh food has been limited and our autonomy over our supply chains has been limited.
ACHFN was born out of a necessity to bridge the gap between heritage and health. We started as a small collective of growers, chefs, and food advocates sharing seeds and stories. Today, we are a growing network dedicated to food justice, raising the standards, advocating for policies that respect our traditions and protect our future.
Why Now?
In a world of disconnecting food systems, the time to reconnect with our roots is urgent. We are answering the call for culturally appropriate, sustainable, and equitable food access before the knowledge is lost forever.
A shared direction, rooted in heritage and collective care.
Our long view and daily practice work together: reclaiming food as cultural memory, strengthening community infrastructure, and building systems that honour sovereignty, dignity, and belonging.
Our Vision
A world where our cultural foods are celebrated, accessible, and serve as a foundation for health, wealth, and community connection across generations.
Our Mission
To empower African and Caribbean communities through food sovereignty, preserving culinary heritage, and fostering economic resilience within our local food systems.
Core Values
The principles that guide our work, our relationships, and the way we build with community.
Authenticity
We stay rooted in the histories, knowledge, and lived experiences that shape African and Caribbean food heritage.
Equity
We work to challenge barriers in the food system so communities have fair access, representation, and opportunity.
Excellence
We hold our work to a high standard, ensuring our programmes are thoughtful, effective, and rooted in care.
Sustainability
We advocate for practices that respect the land, protect resources, and support long-term community wellbeing.
We don’t just distribute food,
we redistribute power.
Unlike traditional food banks, The African and Caribbean Heritage Food Network focuses on the root causes of food insecurity. By emphasising cultural relevance, we ensure dignity is preserved in every interaction. By focusing on production and education, we are creating independence, not dependence.
Led by Community
Rooted in Experience
Deirdre (Dee) Woods
An award-winning food educator and advocate with over 25 years of experience in community development, food sovereignty, and social justice.
Olukemi (Kemi) Atijosan
An award-winning food justice strategist and systems thinker whose work connects food, culture, politics, and care across communities.
Dawn Dublin
A strategist and facilitator working across food sovereignty, decolonial practice, and cultural placemaking.