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In Episode 9 of Of Seed and Soil: Unincorporated Voices of Food, Farming, and Freedom, we hear from Dara Monifa Cooper, a long-time food system advocate, connector, and visionary based in St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands.

For decades, Dara has been a quiet force in the movement—uplifting farmers, sharing critical information, building bridges, and pushing for systems-level solutions that reflect the power and potential of Virgin Islanders. Whether through grassroots work or organizational partnerships, her leadership is grounded in collaboration, accountability, and collective liberation.

In this episode, Dara shares:
-----Why cross-sector relationship-building is essential to a thriving food system
-----How we can hold each other accountable while still moving forward in love and alignment
-----Her vision for how Virgin Islanders can create solutions from within that sustain both land and people

This is a thoughtful and energizing conversation with someone who has long been doing the behind-the-scenes work to keep our farming community informed, empowered, and connected. Dara reminds us that liberation isn’t a solo act—it’s a collective rhythm rooted in trust, transparency, and shared purpose.

🌱 Learn more at: www.goodfoodvi.org
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In Episode 8 of Of Seed and Soil: Unincorporated Voices of Food, Farming, and Freedom, we are joined by Tarik McMillan—a son of St. Croix, a licensed trauma clinician, and a powerful voice in the movement for land stewardship and justice in the Virgin Islands.

Tarik brings a deeply rooted perspective as both a mental health professional and an advocate for land ownership, cultural preservation, and resistance to gentrification. With a background in trauma-based counseling and community healing, he speaks candidly about the emotional, spiritual, and generational connection to land, and what it means when that connection is threatened.

In this episode, Tarik explores:

What gentrification really looks like in the Virgin Islands—and how it differs from development

The role of land stewardship as a form of self-determination and healing

Why community-based land ownership must be central to our food and freedom movements

This is more than a conversation about policy—it’s a grounded and necessary discussion about belonging, sovereignty, and the right to remain.

🌱 Learn more at: www.goodfoodvi.org

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📸 Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/goodfood_vi

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In Episode 7 of Of Seed and Soil: Unincorporated Voices of Food, Farming, and Freedom, we sit down with Chef Ralph Motta—a St. Croix native whose deep love for the Virgin Islands and fresh, local ingredients has shaped his culinary journey.

From childhood curiosity to professional kitchen, Chef Motta shares how growing up in the Virgin Islands informed not only his palate but also his purpose as a chef. In this thoughtful conversation, he talks about the cultural importance of food, supporting local farmers, and why fresh, sustainable ingredients matter—especially in a place as unique as the VI.

In this episode, Chef Motta discusses:

--How growing up in St. Croix inspired his passion for cooking.
--Why the Virgin Islands’ food culture is worth preserving and celebrating
--The chef’s role in advancing local food systems and sovereignty

Whether you are a foodie, a farmer, or someone passionate about community-led food systems, this episode offers a grounded and flavorful take on the deeper meaning behind what we eat.

🌱 Learn more about Chef Motta’s work: mottacuisine.com

🌍 Visit Virgin Islands Good Food: www.goodfoodvi.org

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🎧 Subscribe and follow for more real stories from the people growing, cooking, and transforming our food futures in the Virgin Islands.