Food Justice Pioneer Honorees: Roberto Meza

Robert Meza is a food justice advocate and the co-founder of East Denver Food Hub, a non-profit organization based in Colorado that aims to promote healthy, affordable, and sustainable food access to low-income communities. Robert has a background in farming and community organizing, and his work focuses on creating equitable food systems that support local farmers, reduce food waste, and improve public health. Robert’s commitment to social justice and environmental sustainability has earned him recognition and support from local and national organizations, and he continues to inspire and empower individuals to take action toward a more just and sustainable food system.

Food Justice Pioneer Honorees: Shannon Francis

Shannon Francis is a Hopi and Dineh from Arizona and New Mexico, and comes from a long line of earth caretakers, ethnobotanists, and seed keepers. She weaves Traditional Ecological Knowledge with innovative science and is passionate about educating on land, water, and soil resources, preserving Native heirloom GMO-free seeds, and living more harmoniously with nature. Shannon is the Executive Director for Spirit of the Sun, Inc. located in Denver, and has received numerous awards for her work with Indigenous gardening, food justice, and community building projects. She strives to help Native and Indigenous youth learn about ancestral memory and how to heal historical trauma through soil and seeds. Shannon has six children and four grandchildren who inspire her to make the world a better place for future generations.

Food Justice Pioneer Honorees: Andrea Loudd

Andrea Loudd is a dedicated community leader based in Denver, Colorado. She is the founder and operator of Andrea’s No Cost Grocery, a non-profit organization that provides free groceries to families and individuals in need. Andrea’s No Cost Grocery was established in response to the growing issue of food insecurity in Denver and the surrounding areas. Andrea’s dedication to her community and her tireless efforts in fighting food insecurity have earned her widespread recognition and respect. Her work with Denver Food Rescue has been featured in local and national media, and she continues to inspire others to get involved in the fight against food insecurity.

Keynote Speaker: Robert Egger

Robert is a renowned social entrepreneur, author, and activist who has spent his career advocating for social justice and fighting food insecurity in America. He is the founder of the DC Central Kitchen, a groundbreaking social enterprise that has trained and employed thousands of individuals experiencing homelessness and at-risk individuals in Washington, D.C. In addition, he co-founded World Central Kitchen board of directors with chef José Andrés, an organization that has served millions of meals to people affected by natural disasters and other crises around the world.

Food from: Chef Tajahi Cooke – Founder/Owner Ms. Betty’s Grandson

Tajahi is a chef with extensive experience in the food industry, having worked in various restaurants and as the executive chef of Dine and Dash Group. He also runs a successful catering company and curry powder business called Ms. Betty’s Cooking. Tajahi is passionate about giving back to the community and has hosted events like Ms. Betty’s Harvest Madsgiving, which serves meals to those in need, and Supper Club, a monthly dinner series that supports local causes. He has also introduced “The Chef’s Kitchen Residency” program to mentor young cooks at Freedom Street Social food hall. Tajahi holds multiple Board Member positions at Warren Tech Culinary School, Emily Griffith Quick Start Culinary Program, and The Salvation Army Disaster Relief Team.