Back to 'Bama

Returning to Alabama always brings up deep emotions, especially when I’m coming back to speak as an invited keynote. Recently, I had the honor of presenting at the South Region Small Farms Conference in Mobile, and as I stood before that audience, I felt the presence of my roots—both the painful ones I’ve overcome and the beautiful ones I’ve grown to appreciate.

I’m originally from Annie Manie, Wilcox County, one of those small places that seem to be in every state, where everyone knows each other, and the community is as close-knit as it gets. When I left Alabama, I was a teenage mom with little more than determination and faith. Some people believed that my path was already set, that I’d never rise above my circumstances. But here I am, having built a life and a business that others once thought was impossible. I’ve come back to Alabama, not as someone who left her past behind, but as someone who carries her story with pride—a story of resilience, faith, and unyielding grit.

Speaking at the conference was a chance to give back to the farming community, to share what I’ve learned, and, most importantly, to remind others that they are capable of writing their own stories, no matter where they start. It was meaningful to stand in front of other farmers and encourage them to explore what’s possible in our field. Some may want to diversify their crops, expanding into new markets or supporting niche needs in the supply chain. Others might feel called to launch farmer-owned brands, like I did with Green Heffa Farms, or to gain expertise in fundraising to help their operations grow sustainably. Whatever the path, the most powerful thing we can do as farmers is to support one another.

Farming is hard. It’s isolating at times, and the challenges can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to do it all with integrity and purpose. That’s why community and collegiality mean everything in this work. We need to know we’re not alone in our struggles, that others have walked similar paths and are there to share their insights and encouragement.

My journey, from a teenage mom from Annie Manie to the CEO of an award-winning, farmer-owned brand, has been defined by moments where someone believed in me, shared a resource, or simply gave a word of encouragement. Now, being in a position to do the same for others feels like coming full circle. It’s a reminder that no matter where we start, no matter the obstacles, there’s room for us to grow—and more importantly, to grow together.

To everyone at the South Region Small Farms Conference, thank you for being part of this journey with me. Here’s to supporting each other, lifting each other up, and finding ways to grow—individually and as a community. Because when farmers thrive together, we create lasting change not just for ourselves but for the generations that will follow.