Who am I and what have I done? Stephanie James is a Philadelphia-based artist/writer and community advocate whose work blends rhythm, faith and cultural truth. Now in a season of fulfillment and after what seems like a life-long journey for James to find her artistic niche, really has not been so long after all.  For over thirty years James has been marinating; eloquently marinating her artistic ability within the infrastructure of the federal government; preparing, planning for, mitigating against, and responding to natural and man-made disasters (including, hurricanes tornadoes, floods, civil unrests and more). Looking to satisfy her personal palate, James has now stepped into her personal glory and uses her voice to explore themes of food insecurity, farming, community advocacy, land justice and equity—especially in moments “when the streets talk back”. A distinct Philly influence, James brings to the Black Farmers Co-Op (BFC) expressions of work that comfort, soothe the palate, challenge and sometimes, “make you wanna holla, throw up both ya hands!”

Rooted in faith, her writings gently settle ones wrestling soul and challenge the basis of cultural and racial divides. On occasion she makes those who witness, feel the warmth of a childhood memory only to reconnect with a smile.

James’ voice in print is being served through her efforts of contributions as Assistant Executive Director, BFC where she contributes her voice to advancing food justice, community empowerment and sustainable change. Stay tuned as James’ works dare to respond with her artistic ability, personal opinions, and challenges to some controversial matters occurring in and witnessed by our very own Black Community.

So, who is Stephanie James? A warrior at heart, who writes with a fearless spirit. Her courageous words scare the “f” out of “fear”; leaving only ear—because faith comes by hearing.

Neville and Shirlene Moore are co-founders of the Black Farmers Co-Op (BFC). Both have long recognized the importance of healthy eating, budget friendly non-gmo food and the need for the education and sensitization of the urban community in ways to "Grow to Eat, Eat to Grow".

Dr. MoNique Holland: Sound Healing Practitioner and Self-Care Advocate Dr. MoNique is a passionate and skilled sound healing practitioner dedicated to guiding individuals on a transformative journey of self-care and inner harmony. With a deep understanding of the therapeutic power of sound, she creates immersive experiences that promote relaxation, emotional healing, and energetic balance.

Dr. Harvel Brown – Vice President of Farmer Liaison & Community Development

Dr. Harvel Brown was born into a farming family in Wilkesboro, North Carolina. He obtained his degree from Temple University after serving in the military for six years.  He has collaborated with USDA in developing new ways of farming based on a Vertical Integration Method, which involves raising cattle, supporting the soil, producing food for chicken farms, and using the effluent from the chickens to make fuel and food for the fish farms. He has traveled to Nigeria, Liberia, and Grenada to assist in implementing this method. Since 2003, he has done consultant work with USDA and North Star Group, developing new Aquaculture methods. Dr. Brown worked as Executive Director of Economic Development (HUD) with the Chester County Economic Development Corporation in Chester County, PA, from 1998 to 2003. In this role, he was responsible for a strategic partnership to strengthen families of non-custodial dads through job creation in collaboration with various agencies. He also has a PhD in Theology and was Dean of Students at the Downingtown Agricultural & Industrial School in Downingtown, PA, from 1976 to 1985, where he worked with challenged students and developed and implemented special educational, cultural, and farm programs.

Amanda Ayala, BS, COTA, CB
Executive Administrator, The Black Farmers Co-op
Co-Founder, Nu Minds Nu Earth, Inc. (501c3)

Amanda Ayala is a dedicated and dynamic Executive Administrator for The Black Farmers Co-op, where she passionately supports sustainable agriculture, community empowerment, and the advancement of Black farmers. With a strong commitment to environmental and economic equity, Amanda plays a key role in organizing initiatives and building partnerships that align with the Co-op's mission to uplift Black farmers and foster the growth of local, urban agricultural projects.

In her position, Amanda expertly handles a range of administrative tasks, from coordinating events and outreach programs to managing day-to-day operations that contribute to the Co-op's success. She is instrumental in the development and execution of educational initiatives aimed at bridging the gap between agriculture and urban communities. Amanda's work extends beyond logistics, as she is deeply involved in strategic planning and fostering relationships with stakeholders to drive positive change.

In addition to her work with The Black Farmers Co-op, Amanda is also the Co-Founder of Nu Minds Nu Earth, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Philadelphia. Nu Minds Nu Earth is a transformative force focused on empowering communities through education, environmental stewardship, and social change. The organization addresses key issues like food insecurity, youth empowerment, and community engagement, with a focus on sustainability and cultural education.

Amanda’s dedication to social justice and her passion for uplifting underserved communities through education and entrepreneurship are central to her work with both organizations. Her commitment to creating more inclusive and resilient agricultural sectors, alongside her advocacy for community-based solutions to environmental challenges, is a testament to her leadership and vision.

Executive Director of the Black Farmers Co-Operative (BFC)

Carol Simmons, Ed.D. is a Vegan and she promotes healthy living. Her education includes a Psychology degree, a Master’s, Teaching Certifications, and her Doctorate in Urban Educational Leadership,.

She has been a Vegan/Plant Based for over 50 years and has owned two vegetarian restaurants. She has a host of books which are entitled Faith Through Fearlessness, a Vegetarian Cookbook Eat Vegetables Don’t Become One, three Children’s books and Quotes Through Faith.

Dr. Simmons is the Executive Director of the Black Farmers Co-Operative (BFC). An organization that has launched a transformative initiative to address the urgent need for sustainable agriculture education in urban city food deserts, particularly focusing on Philadelphia. She is the Administrative Director for The International Institute for Advanced Instruction (TIIAI) a Non-Profit and on the board of Elmwood Eastwick Empowerment, Inc (EEE) which is the umbrella for the BFC.  For the last decade she has supported Senior Citizens by providing meals. She is committed to the empowerment of the community.

Pastor Thomas was ordained as a Deacon at a young age at the Crusaders For Christ Evangelistic Church, under the leadership of the late Apostle Thelma Malone.  After years of serving in that capacity, Pastor Thomas was licenses and ordained as a minister.  He was installed as the Senior Pastor of Walk In the Light Abundant Harvest Christian Center. Pastor has made four missionary trips to West Africa.  He as worked in the prison ministry. He has been active in street Evangelism. He was the spiritual advisor for the 12^th Police District. He has worked with a host of organizations as a chaplain and spiritual advisor. He is currently the Pastor of the “Walk in the Light Ministries” and the President of the Black Farmers Co-op since its inception in 2022.