How seriously do you consider the food you eat on a daily basis? Where did it come from — and how easy was it for you to get it?
Join us and dig in to the topic of food security and the items on your own plate — in more ways than one — over the lunch hour.
This panel of passionate experts and community representatives will explore vital topics such as promoting sustainability through community initiatives, providing resources for low-income families and offering practical tips on healthy eating while on a budget.
Throughout the conversation, you’ll also learn effective ways to reduce food waste, grow your own food indoors or in containers, and work towards creating healthier, more sustainable communities.
Motayo Dawodu
Owner/Founder, Luminous Nature
Motayo began her wellness journey in 2005 at the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition, where she built a strong foundation in nutrition and natural therapies. Motivated by a desire to deepen her knowledge, Motayo pursued advanced studies in bioenergetics at the Institute of Natural Health Technologies in Oakville, Ont., and orthopedic massage at the Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health. Inspired by childhood experiences — including witnessing her father’s remarkable recovery from cataracts using a herbal remedy from Nigeria — Motayo developed a deep passion for holistic healing. Her focus now lies in exploring the intricate connection between the human body and the natural world.
Jack Goodwin, BSc'09 (he/him)
CEO, Gorilla Gardener and Co-founder, Vacant Lots Farm Club
Jack is a scientist who moved into the fields of practical design and ecological agriculture by the ominous realities of the present world: ecological degradation, climate change and incredible disparity. His love of science, food and holistic design has merged into a career in ecological agriculture, where he has spent the last 10 years starting and supporting both for and non-profit urban agriculture projects in Calgary. Some of his notable work includes The Land of Dreams and Highfield Regenerative Farm, which together represent more than 18 hectares (45 acres) of development space devoted to urban agriculture in the city.
Karen Gallagher-Burt, BSW’08, MSW’13 (she/her)
Director of Strategy and Engagement, Distress Centre Calgary
Karen has lived and worked as a foster parent, educator, volunteer manager, community connector and director, and her passion for mental health, children and community service has been a guiding force throughout her life. As an advocate for food security, she has an understanding of the vital role that information and services play in connecting individuals to essential resources. She is committed to helping others access food services, including through programs like the Good Food Box and the 211 Alberta referral service.
Heather Ramshaw (she/her)
Campus Food Hub Co-ordinator, University of Calgary
Heather brings more than a decade of experience in community development and food systems work to her role at UCalgary. In this capacity, she oversees initiatives aimed at enhancing food security on campus, including the Campus Food Hub and Affordable Food Market, which provide students with access to nutritious, affordable food options. Heather’s background in community development and organic agriculture informs her commitment to addressing food insecurity and promoting sustainable food systems within the university community. She believes in the power of good food, and that cabbages are highly underrated.
Lorelei Lachambre, MC’05 (she/her)
Board Member, UCalgary Alumni Association
Lorelei holds a Master of Counselling degree from UCalgary and is currently a food security champion as part of her director role on the University of Calgary Alumni Association board. In 2023, she was recognized by the Schulich School of Engineering Excellence Awards for fostering equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility in engineering. Lorelei previously lived in Saskatchewan and has 20 years of experience in a variety of counselling positions in education and non-profit community organizations. She currently works as the graduate work integrated learning specialist in UCalgary’s Faculty of Graduate Studies.
About Dig In!
The UCalgary Alumni “Dig In!” series lets you “dig in” to the most important and interesting topics of the day over the lunch hour! Join us for unique and interactive discussions examining hot topics, trends and more.