Bidwell Training Center alumna hopes to break through systemic barriers to justice with new plant nursery

September, 14 2020 12:30 pm

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NEXTPittsburgh interviewed Raynise Kelly, Bidwell Training Center (BTC) alumna, and her sister TaRay Kelly about the opening of their business, Soil Sisters Plant Nursery. The sisters opened their nursery this year, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and social justice movement. In the article, the sisters state that opening their nursery was, ''both a business decision and one made with a bigger purpose: They envision themselves as the next set of pioneers for systemic change.''

 

The sisters' business goals include helping to create a lasting framework for Black-owned agricultural businesses, along with addressing issues surrounding food apartheid — a term that "'highlights the lack of high-quality, affordable fresh food and the systemic race-based structures that cause it.''

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Read, ''Pittsburgh's Black farmers work to grow a new future.''

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About BTC Alumna Raynise Kelly

 

Raynise Kelly studied Horticulture Technology at BTC and interned with Plantscape, Tree Pittsburgh and The Frick. Kelly also worked a two-year externship at Brenckles Greenhouses while attending BTC. After graduation, she landed a job at Grow Pittsburgh, where she still works.

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