Changing Perspectives: Reimagining Food Production with the Urban Farmer

We interview Taz Khan, aka the Urban Farmer, who manages London’s Community Kitchen. Taz’s mission has progressed beyond just providing food, as he is expanding into education and farming. His plans to open a traditional farm in the middle of London are well underway.

How did you first get into agriculture and food production?

TAZ: My involvement in agriculture and food production stems from a profound love for culinary arts, nature and sustainability.

For more than a decade, our focus has been on assisting communities grappling with food insecurity. Through this work, we recognized a common challenge: the need for access to high-quality, affordable food and a better understanding of food systems and ingredients.

Central to my beliefs is the notion of fostering a connection with the land, supplying communities with fresh, organic produce, and encouraging individuals to address local challenges by embracing a more sustainable approach.

Tell us about London’s Community Kitchen. How has it expanded over the years?

TAZ: London’s Community Kitchen originated as a modest endeavour aimed at combating food insecurity for a small group in North London. Over time, it has evolved into a vibrant centre serving as a blueprint model for the city.

Beyond providing meals, our kitchen educates and empowers individuals to take charge of their lives. True empowerment comes from establishing mutual equity, beginning with elevating the aspirations of our community members. Through this, they can cultivate their own food, leading to a more prosperous and sustainable lifestyle that benefits them and their surroundings.

How important is the educational aspect of the work you do?

TAZ: Education lies at the core of our mission, equipping people with the knowledge and skills necessary to steer their destinies. By acquiring new skills and knowledge, individuals can alter the course of their lives.

One simple yet impactful step is cultivating their own food, fostering self-sufficiency and a deeper appreciation of food sources. This holistic approach not only positively impacts health but also nourishes the mind and soul, creating a ripple effect of wellness.

Describe the benefits of microgreens, and how to grow them.

TAZ: Microgreens, renowned for their nutrient density and flavour, make an excellent addition to any diet. These tiny greens are easy to cultivate, requiring minimal space and time. By sowing specially designated seeds densely in a shallow container with quality soil, adequate watering, and sunlight, individuals can grow these nutrient-packed greens at home.

We chose to focus on microgreens due to their exceptional nutritional value, ease of cultivation, and versatility in various culinary applications, aiming to make this nutritious option accessible to a wider audience.

Do you like the title of “The Urban Farmer”? Do you think more urban food growers should consider themselves to be farmers?

TAZ: Embracing the title of “The Urban Farmer,” I emphasize the significance of urban agriculture and the vital role of city residents in food production. Urban food growers should be recognized as farmers, honouring the dedication and hard work involved in cultivating food.

While urban farmers may lack traditional farmland or green spaces, it necessitates reimagining the urban landscape and adopting innovative approaches to food production. In this evolving context, cities themselves become fertile grounds, and urban dwellers transform into urban farmers, catalysing a paradigm shift in food cultivation.

What is your favourite thing about the work you do?

TAZ: A fulfilling aspect of my work is witnessing the profound impact on individuals and communities. Observing people unite to grow food, exchange knowledge, and shape a more sustainable future is exceptionally rewarding.

The daily moments of magic witnessed, from alleviating hunger among children to empowering struggling adults economically, underscore the transformative power of community-driven initiatives. By addressing daily challenges and providing skills training and resources, we facilitate remarkable journeys towards self-sufficiency and resilience.

How would you describe the future of food?

TAZ: The future of food presents exciting opportunities centred on sustainability, innovation, and equitable access to fresh, nutritious options. Envisioning a landscape where local food systems flourish, incorporating technological advancements and traditional wisdom to meet burgeoning demands, signifies a transformative shift in food production.

By integrating food systems within urban environments and leveraging technology and community partnerships, we can ensure universal access to fresh, nutritious food, eliminating food insecurity and fostering a more equitable society.

What role does heritage play in your plans?

TAZ: Heritage and history are pivotal in shaping my vision for sustainable food systems, offering a wealth of knowledge and practices to guide our path forward. By honouring our past, we pave the way for a resilient, interconnected future.

Reflecting on a farmer’s insight – encapsulated in the phrase, “Farming of the future lies in its past” – resonates deeply, encouraging a rediscovery of traditional techniques and knowledge to enrich our modern food systems. Upholding these practices not only preserves our environment but also safeguards the well-being of all individuals within it.

Many thanks to Taz and the LCK team for hosting a visit of University of Reading staff in May 2024. All images within this blog were taken during the visit.

This blog forms part of Changing Perspectives in Food and Farming, a series of interviews highlighting the experiences and perspectives of people of colour in rural England today. It extends the work of our previous 2021 series, Changing Perspectives in the Countryside. Thank you to Esmée Fairbairn Foundation and Museums Association for funding this work.