Meet Taffany Hyatt | ‘The Plant Whisperer’, Gardener, & Urban Ag advocate

We had the good fortune of connecting with Taffany Hyatt and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Taffany, what’s the end goal, career-wise?
The end goal for me is being able to provide food as a free resource. I fully believe food is a human right. No one should be denied access to fresh, non-GMO foods; regardless of their socio-economic background. Food justice and land access are critical aspects to building sovereignty. I aim to provide an alternative that supplies and builds the micro-local food system in large areas which can combat many of these issues we face while also focusing on environmental regeneration. Giving people and their families truly healthy food while eliminating the traditional grocery store as we know it. What that looks like exactly I can’t say for sure but I know with the progress I am making within my career it is more than attainable. I am currently in the process of launching my very own Non-Profit here in Atlanta, which will allow me to expand and be of service on an even greater level.

I do not believe that agricultural work ever ends. Cultivating the earth is a commitment that spans through seasons and ultimately generations. I am reminded of the Chinese proverb. ” One generation plants the trees, and another gets the shade”. Essentially, I have accepted that there is no “end” to my career and the work that I do. Just a continual process of knowledge transfer, self-sustainability and living symbiotically with nature.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
After doing three years in college for Civil Engineering I dropped out. I realized that doing something for the money or societal norms was not conducive to a healthy life. I wanted more for myself without having to sacrifice the remainder of my life doing something I dreaded. The only thing during that time that would give me peace was tending to my plot at my local community garden. From there my talents were noticed and I have since worked for a plethora of organizations and non-profits; growing fresh natural produce while spreading knowledge on food access, self-sustainability and land stewardship. I have also worked with K-12 schools where I facilitate outdoor classroom lessons and demos for students. Helping maintain their school gardens along with supporting STEAM teachers integrate this much needed skill into their curriculum and lesson plans. During the pandemic I was able to grow over 3,000lbs of fresh organic produce which was donated to local food banks, churches and community pantries. I am now Site Coordinator for two community gardens here in the metro-Atlanta Area.

This definitely has not been easy. There have been many times where circumstances out of my control have hindered me and even caused me to remove myself from some projects. Helping me learn to be okay with pivots and standing firm in my morals and standards. Change is inevitable so being able to transition with grace is key. Also learning to not be so hard on myself. During this stage of my career I am looking for ways to expand my impact and help change the narrative for underserved families within this food apartheid. As I stated earlier, I am in the process of launching my own Non-Profit by the end of this year that will address integral issues within the current food system. I look forward to applying the knowledge and experiences I have learned over the years to continue this great work helping others become self-sustainable and truly sovereign beings.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting for a week I would most definitely take her to Ponce city market and the beltline. We love the outdoors so the idea of renting a bike and traversing the city is a win! Plus the plethora of restaurants and breweries will keep us busy for awhile. Personally, I am a huge foodie so I would have to take her to a few of my favorite restaurants. One of them being Apt 4B over in Buckhead. I fully enjoy their good eats and dj sets. We would also go on a food truck hunt. The food trucks in Atlanta are underrated but oh so good! We’ll also choose a day to go hiking at Sweetwater creek not to far from the city. Ending the trip would be a self-care day at Jeju Sauna. The pink Himalayan salt sauna is my favorite.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to shout out my mom for always supporting me! What initially started out as a labor of love has turned into my career and livelihood. Throughout the entire process she has been a pillar of support, love and encouragement. I am forever grateful.

Website: https://linktr.ee/taffany

Instagram: @theelementalgardner