Ekow Ashun-Stone
Arrell Scholar, Department of Geography, Environment & Geomatics
Ekow Ashun-Stone will be completing his master’s in the Department of Geography, Environment & Geomatics under the supervision of Dr. Sara Edge, Arrell Chair in Food, Policy, and Society. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Environment and Urban Sustainability with a Minor in Politics from Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU). As a research assistant at TMU, Ekow supported projects on environmental justice, urban forestry, and the housing challenges faced by immigrant and marginalized communities. He later worked as a Program Coordinator at FoodShare Toronto, co-managing an urban farm and delivering youth programming on food justice and sustainability. Ekow is also the co-founder of It’s Giving Farm, an ecologically focused farm in Rouge National Urban Park, where he grows culturally significant crops and partners on seed adaptation projects with the Ecological Farmers Association of Ontario. His work is rooted in a commitment to community-led urban agriculture and equitable food systems.
Ekow’s research examines how to strengthen Black agri-food sovereignty in the Greater Toronto Area, and Southern Ontario more broadly, by improving the supply chain for ethno-cultural vegetables (ECVs) through community-based, entrepreneurial solutions. By identifying key barriers and opportunities for Black farmers, businesses and consumers, he aims to develop a working model that increases the production and accessibility of ECVs in ways that promote equity, sustainability, and regional food system resilience.
Learn more about Arrell ScholarshipsWhy become an Arrell Scholar?
As a farmer and researcher, the University of Guelph has been of peak interest to Ekow for pursuing graduate studies as it offers unparalleled access to cutting-edge research, practical learning opportunities, and strong connections to the agricultural sector. Moreover, as an emerging entrepreneur, Ekow is particularly drawn to Arrell Food Institute and its role in advancing innovations in agri-food entrepreneurship, and looks forward to drawing on their expertise and network to support the development of his research.
Want to learn more about Arrell Scholarships?
Arrell Food Institute provides graduate students the opportunity to engage in an experiential learning program that will prepare them to be leaders in the agri-food sector and address key agriculture and food challenges.rnrnArrell Scholarships are currently not open for applications. Please check back for updates.