our team
jeanne (she/her)
Based in Chicago, I'm a land access practitioner, community organizer, and party planner that aims to center collaboration, abundance, care, and systems change in my work. I helped start our chapter in 2021 through a desire to make new farmer friends and tap into the agrarian community I knew existed and thrived here. I have a deep belief in collective involvement and people power that has been strengthened through watching my fellow organizers put their energy and passion into this chapter and through gathering with fellow farmers at NIYF's annual event, Our Midwestern Farm-ily Reunion.
My go-to farming knife? Easy. Victorinox, Serrated. Adaptable, accessible, sleek unfussy luxury. Seems like three words you could also use to describe NIYF... Find me behind the pancake griddle at the next reunion to chat about organizing, land access, collective grief, or puppets!
laShawn (she/her)
LaShawn Miller (she/her) is a dedicated urban farmer, food justice advocate, and policy organizer committed to transforming food systems through sustainable agriculture, education, and community empowerment. As the Founder of Finding Justice A Flower and Vegetable Garden, LaShawn addresses food insecurity, chronic disease, and economic disparities by growing fresh, organic produce and providing hands-on educational experiences in Chicago’s underserved communities. With over 15 years of experience in project management, LaShawn expertly navigates the complexities of urban farming, policy advocacy, and community engagement. In her role as Policy Organizer for the Illinois Stewardship Alliance, LaShawn advances initiatives that support small farmers, promote food sovereignty, and advocate for equitable food policies at local, state, and federal levels.LaShawn holds certifications in Urban Sustainability, Horticulture, Plant-Based Nutrition, and Mental Health First Aid, reflecting her deep commitment to holistic health and environmental stewardship. Her work extends beyond farming—partnering with food pantries, schools, restaurants, and community organizations to ensure that fresh, locally grown food is accessible to all.
A passionate speaker and educator, LaShawn develops curricula for youth and adults, teaching the vital connections between food, health, and culture. Her leadership and vision continue to shape a more just and sustainable food system, ensuring that everyone—regardless of background—has the power to grow, eat, and thrive.
Alyssa is a farmer, gardener, yogi, and friend. She first learned the basics of urban farming while earning her BA at Loyola University, then continued her education through rural farming (and life) in Washington and northern New Mexico.
Driven by a commitment to food sovereignty, land access, and community well-being, she cares for the land. If we're going to fuel the food revolution, we need people to feed the revolution—and those people need friends! That's why she's passionate about the work of the Northern Illinois Young Farmers Coalition, where friendships between farmers have space to grow alongside skills, support, and community.
Today, Alyssa farms in the Chicagolan area. When she's not in the field, you can find her enjoying delicious food, slacklining between trees, staying hydrated, and smiling at strangers.
Favorite 🔪: Tonma Hori hori
alyssa (she/they)
amera (she/her)
Located in Northwest IL (Freeport), Amera is an advocate for local food, regenerative farming, and creating a sustainable food system through diverse market access. While not a grower of things herself, she is heavily involved in value added processes- operating Faith Over Fear Fermentary, managing the Stephenson County Farmers Market, and as Communications Director for Jo Daviess Local Foods. A pretty dedicated locavore, she works behind the scenes to educate and inspire communities to support and uplift local producers!
When not in her home kitchen concocting unique local recipes or on her computer, she enjoys anything outdoors with her partner, 5 year old son, and puppy.
Sitting in silence, sharing in stories, and appreciating existence through human connections also take up her time :)
She's ecstatic to be a part of the team, and add additional value to the work this chapter is doing!
Favorite knife: In kitchen: Any sharp knife, the cleanest and closest gets chosen! Outside: Leatherman Multi Tool, when you need a knife for anything else.
ben (he/him)
Ben Jaffe has worked in the farming, food and non-profit sector for over twenty years. He is the co-owner of Earthlore Farm, a small family-owned market farm 70 miles southeast of Chicago. Earthlore distributes its local products for retail and wholesale outlets in the Chicagoland area as well as partnering with local farms and institutions. Prior to jumping full-time into managing their rural farm Ben worked in various roles in Chicago's urban farming scene; Director at Chicago Lights Urban Farm where he worked to provide a variety of programs to the Cabrini Green/Near North community over 8 years, Instructor of the 9-month program at Windy City Harvest and Community Garden Liason at the Chicago Park District. Ben moved to the midwest some 15 years ago to be with his wife Caitlin but is originally from Massachusetts, where he also spent many seasons working on rural farms of various sizes and types. Ben loves his 2 daughters, age 3 and 7 and also likes to play music, build useful things and take walks in the woods.
Favorite knife: AM Leonard Soil Knife, just cause Victorinox harvest knife was already said!