A new chapter: Foodrise projects Sussex Surplus and Seeding Reparations go independent to continue work on food justice

Two of Foodrise’s longstanding initiatives – Sussex Surplus and Seeding Reparations – have now become independent Community Interest Companies (CICs). This marks an exciting milestone in the evolution of Foodrise and represents a new chapter in our collective work to promote food justice, reduce waste, and support community-led change.

Seeding Reparations is a racial justice organisation that has fostered a collective of allied organisations to form a powerful network of activists working towards food justice and equitable access to resources. The organisation will now be co-directed by Andre Kpodonu, Foodrise’s outgoing Director of Programmes, alongside Tom Wakeford and Tatiana Garavito, providing strong leadership to expand its reach and impact.  

During his five years at Foodrise, Andre made an outstanding contribution, and his steadfast guidance and relational approach will be greatly missed in the charity’s communities team. Seeding Reparations continues to grow its network of food justice activists, amplifying the voices and leadership of those working towards systemic change. 

“It’s been a joy and a privilege to work with so many incredible people to get Seeding Reparations to this point. More than ever, we need initiatives which work directly with communities to further racial justice and holistic repair within food systems. We look forward to working with Sussex Surplus, Foodrise and our shared networks over the coming years to continue championing our common values.” 

Andre Kpodonu (Director), Seeding Reparations 

Since its inception in 2020, Sussex Surplus has grown from a small pilot project into a dynamic social enterprise, offering training and opportunities for neurodiverse young people, gleaning surplus food, and providing fresh, healthy, and delicious meals from their community kitchen in East Brighton. The organisation will now be co-led by Phil Holtam and Ingrid Wakeling, combining their expertise, passion and shared vision to guide Sussex Surplus into this next stage. 

Co-founding Sussex Surplus has been a real journey, exploring the complexities of how to reduce waste in our food systems while adding value at every step for our community. Foodrise’s guidance in navigating a complex landscape of governance and finance has helped us get our feet rooted firmly in the ground of excellence in the charity sector and we now look forward to spreading our wings in the grassroots sectors of food and community.  

Ingrid Wakeling, Sussex Surplus  

Independence enables both organisations to strengthen their missions while continuing to collaborate with Foodrise and the wider food movement. Cross-pollination is already underway: at a recent Seeding Reparations gathering at Sadeh Farm near Orpington, Sussex Surplus provided catering, demonstrating the continuing synergy between the two organisations. Sussex Surplus will also continue as a partner on Foodrise’s Defra-funded Ready Steady Glean project, ensuring that gleaned food from farms reaches communities across Sussex. 

Becoming independent gives each organisation the space to grow, adapt, and respond to their communities’ needs with greater autonomy, while retaining the shared values of collaboration and solidarity that are inherent to Foodrise.  

“It’s inspiring to see how thoughts and ideas have developed into proposals, proposals into projects, and projects into thriving, independent organisations. This milestone reflects not only the dedication of staff but also the support of our partners, funders, and the communities we serve together. 

“We look forward to seeing Sussex Surplus and Seeding Reparations continue to flourish as independent, autonomous organisations. Their success is a testament to what can happen when activists with vision, collaboration, and determination come together to create meaningful change.”

Carina Millstone, Foodrise  

For more information visit the new organisations’ websites: 

• Seeding Reparations 

• Sussex Surplus