ZAWADI MEANS GIFT

Zawadi means gift in Swahili. This is the story of the farm built on that word.

THE FOUNDER
Jessey
was born in Kenya,
built a senior
career in IT,
and walked away
from all of it
to build
a working farm
inside
a Toronto park.
He had to unlearn
the stigma
that farming was,
as he was taught
‘the lowest of
the low job.’
That unlearning
is the most powerful
story this brand
has to tell.
— Jessey Njau,
Founder & Steward,
Zawadi Farm
— and that’s
exactly what this farm is.

Born from a vision to transform urban spaces into thriving hubs of agricultural activity, Zawadi Farm has been growing food and community in Toronto since 2017.

Zawadi Farm was founded with a simple but profound mission: to promote sustainable agriculture, nurture community bonds, and empower individuals through education and access to fresh, locally grown food. Our no-till, regenerative practices ensure the land we steward is healthier for every generation that follows. We don’t just grow crops — we grow farmers, food networks, and a more resilient city.

Get Your Farm Share
Get Your Farm Share
Our values
in action
every day
Food Sovereignty
We believe every family deserves access to fresh, dignified food

Our subsidized share program, food bank partnerships, and sliding-scale pricing put equitable food access at the centre of everything we do. Because hunger is not a personal failing — it’s a systemic one, and we’re here to change that.

Regenerative Land Care
No-till practices that leave the land better than we found it

We employ no-till farming methods that prioritize soil biology, cover cropping that builds organic matter, and integrated pest management that keeps our ecosystem in balance. The land is our most important collaborator.

Community Empowerment
Farming as a vehicle for community resilience and self-determination

Through our Growing Growers training program, volunteer days, educational workshops, and community events, we build the human infrastructure that a thriving local food system actually needs.

FROM THE FIELD
The soil is essential to everything. By nurturing it, we build resilience for communities and ecosystems alike. Every decision on this farm starts with the land.
Join the Community
Join the Community

Frequently asked questions

Where is Zawadi Farm located?

Our main farm is at 160 Downsview Park Blvd, Toronto. We also operate a site at Tandridge Cres in Rexdale. CSA pickup is available at both locations, plus St. Lawrence Market and Leslieville Market on weekends.

How long has Zawadi Farm been operating?

Zawadi Farm was founded in 2017. We’ve been growing food and community in Toronto for over 7 years, completing 7 CSA seasons and growing from 30 founding members to 400+ families.

What does ‘Zawadi’ mean?

Zawadi is the Swahili word for “gift.” The name reflects our belief that food is a gift to our bodies, our neighbours, and the land. It also honours the African heritage at the heart of our community.

Is Zawadi Farm certified organic?

We practice beyond-organic, regenerative agriculture — no synthetic pesticides, no GMOs, no-till practices that actively build soil health. We prioritize practices over certifications, and our members can visit the farm any time to see exactly how we grow.

How can I get involved beyond a farm share?

There are many ways to connect — volunteer at our weekly work days, apply to our Growing Growers training program, attend a farm dinner at The Barn, bring your school group for a farm visit, or partner with us through the Land Stewardship Initiative.

What is the Harambee Collective?

The Harambee Collective is our tri-farm alliance with Ubuntu Community Farm and Sarn Farms. Together we offer a joint CSA program, share infrastructure and resources, and advocate collectively for equitable food policy in Toronto.

Harambee Collective
Join the alliance.
Support the farms.