Open to: All BCIA registrants + guests

Join the Kootenay Boundary Branch for an informative and inspiring evening exploring local food innovation, food security, and community-driven agriculture initiatives in the East Kootenays.

Our guest presenter, Sophie Larsen, Manager of the Food Innovation Centre at the Community Connections Society of Southeast BC, will share insights into the Good Food Programs a suite of initiatives designed to:

• Strengthen food security

• Support local agriculture producers

• Reduce food waste

• Build more resilient regional food systems

Participants will learn how surplus food is rescued and redistributed, how commercial shared-use kitchens empower local producers, and how innovative urban agriculture projects are transforming community access to fresh, nutritious food.

Following the presentation, enjoy a relaxed networking social with delicious appetizers and great conversation. Please note any dietary concerns or allergies when you register.

Topics Covered

• Overview of the Good Food Programs in Southeast BC

• Food recovery and reducing food waste

• Supporting local producers through shared-use commercial kitchens

• Community food security initiatives and education

• Urban agriculture and year-round hydroponic production

• Regional collaboration and building resilient food systems

Learning Objectives

• Understand the scope and impact of the Good Food Programs

• Gain insight into innovative community-based approaches to food security

• Explore opportunities for collaboration within BC’s agriculture and food sectors

• Learn how food recovery and urban agriculture can support sustainable regional development

Presenter

Sophie Larsen, COO, Food Innovation Centre Community Connections Society of Southeast BC.

Sophie Larsen leads the Food Innovation Centre in Cranbrook, where she oversees region-shaping initiatives such as the Farm Kitchen shared-use commercial kitchen, the Cranbrook Urban Farm, and hydroponic growing systems producing fresh greens year-round. She has coordinated food recovery programs, school meal partnerships, and public education initiatives that weave sustainable agriculture into local community life. Sophie has played an instrumental role in securing major grants supporting infrastructure like the East Kootenay Food Hub, helping position the region as a leader in food resilience and innovation.

ATTENTION articling registrants!! The in-person event will be an excellent opportunity to network and meet with other branch registrants.

Please note that photographs and footage will be taken. These will be used by BCIA for marketing and publicity in our publications, on our website, newsletters, and on social media. Should you not wish to have your photo taken and used for these purposes, please advise the photographer at the time.