Introducing Amal
As I began raking the straw off the berry plants in the strawberry field, a new sense of accomplishment washed over me.
Hold on, I’m getting ahead of things, let's rewind a bit!
In 2002, a baby girl was born in Pakistan to her parents, and they named her Amal! They all moved to Dubai, and she lived happily ever after. Now this is too far! Let's try again.
I’m an international student attending Durham College for Travel and Tourism, doing my co-op placement at Forsythe Family Farms. Last year I decided to pursue my post-secondary education in Canada to secure better career and employment opportunities. Canada is known for providing the most excellent educational services around the world.
At Forsythe Family Farms I’m learning so many different things - from growing the food we eat to inviting the public into the farm and showing students where our food comes from. I’m fortunate to get a behind the scenes access to see how the whole farm operates.
Jim and Leslie are typical farmers - running around day and night getting everything done. Lia makes sure the animals are taken care of, Karen expertly handles the market, and the farm educators ensure that the students are engaged & learning. As a new member of the team, I felt embarrassed at times because I would give up so quickly and at times felt that I wasn't of much help to anyone around here, but every single person has boosted my confidence, treated me with respect and care, and most of all they made me feel like family.
Before working on the farm, I didn’t realize the amount of time and effort it takes to plant, harvest, and maintain the crops. Out in the fields, my fingers went numb some days while other days I was so sore from all the hard work! It has made me appreciate all of the produce we have, and even more determined not to waste any of them!
This whole experience has given me the desire to educate people on loving food and hating waste! If you need me, I’ll be out harvesting, and not wasting a thing.