Season 3, Episode 4 of What’s the Tea with Ministry is live!
Discover how the Titan Equity Nourish Network (TENN) at Detroit Mercy is transforming Detroit’s food landscape through community collaboration and student-led initiatives. What if students could spearhead a movement that reshapes a community’s relationship with food?
Hear from Chelsea Manning, the passionate program manager, and Serena Yousif, an inspiring student leader, as they share how TENN’s mission to address food justice and sustainability is making a tangible impact in Detroit. From battling food insecurity to overcoming challenges like transportation and the lack of affordable grocery stores, TENN’s collaborative efforts with local partners are paving the way for a more food-just city.
Manning and Yousif open up about their personal journeys from being unaware of food insecurity issues to becoming fervent advocates for change. This episode highlights the transformative power of food as an essential human need and a unifying force within communities. TENN’s community-centered approach is brought to life with heartwarming stories of garden picnics and produce deliveries, emphasizing the importance of community input and engagement in shaping effective solutions. The richness of shared experiences underscores the vital role of collaboration and the profound impact of providing access to healthy food.
Explore how Detroit Mercy students are finding their niche within TENN’s garden initiative and connecting with the University’s mission of service and cultural diversity. Yousif’s path from home gardening during the pandemic to leading TENN activities is a testament to students’ meaningful contributions to their community. Manning and Yousif also reflect on their personal interests, like the joy of backpacking and the sentimental value of stuffed animals, weaving together a narrative of connection and fulfillment. As you listen, you’ll be inspired by the vibrant community engagement and how TENN’s work not only nurtures gardens but also cultivates a stronger, more connected Detroit.
The podcast, where University Ministry and others in the Detroit Mercy community spill the tea on living out the Jesuit and Mercy mission, was created to expand mission-centered content available to the University community. It is an opportunity to engage in conversations, reflections and interviews with students, staff, faculty, community partners and more.