Monica Newman is an inspiring urban farmer, military veteran, resource facilitator, and advocate for sustainable agriculture. Her journey into farming began in 2020, when she first started growing in the backyard of her home. What began as a personal connection to the land quickly blossomed into a calling, and Monica immersed herself in the agricultural world by attending Future Harvest’s Beginning Farmer Training Program, while simultaneously working at Arcadia’s Veteran Farm Fellowship.
Monica’s path in agriculture led her to co-found Seeded Farm alongside two farm partners, Sam and Gabe. As seed savers and seed keepers, they are dedicated to preserving agricultural biodiversity and growing fresh, locally sourced produce for their community. Their work as incubator farmers helps foster the next generation of growers, and together, they are cultivating not only food but a lasting impact on the urban farming movement.
In addition to her work at Seeded Farm, Monica is the Program Director of the Agricultural Leadership Development Initiative at Future Harvest, where she guides aspiring farmers and empowers them to take on leadership roles in the agricultural community. Monica’s commitment to making agriculture inclusive and accessible drives her passion for educating young people about farming, and she believes that the future of agriculture depends on fostering the next generation of leaders and advocates.
Through her journey in farming, Monica has discovered her deep ancestral ties to the land. After researching her lineage, she uncovered that farming runs through her family’s bloodline. This year, she was honored to become a member of the Piscataway Conoy Tribe, reclaiming her Afro-Indigenous roots and embracing her ancestral birthright. This powerful discovery has further fueled her mission to reconnect with her heritage and share the wisdom of her ancestors with her community.
Monica incorporates her love for fitness, good food, and farming into every aspect of her work. Whether she’s facilitating workshops, leading training sessions, or engaging in community education, she brings a holistic approach to farming that blends physical well-being, healthy eating, and sustainable agriculture. Her energy and enthusiasm for both fitness and farming create an engaging, dynamic atmosphere wherever she goes.
As a military veteran, Monica’s life experience and leadership qualities make her a natural mentor and resource facilitator in the agricultural space. She is driven by the belief that farming is more than a profession—it’s a way to heal, connect, and build community. Monica’s infectious spirit, love for laughter, and commitment to educating the next generation of farmers make her a true trailblazer in the world of urban farming and a powerful advocate for Afro-Indigenous representation in agriculture.
Contact Monica at monica@futureharvest.org