Young Marketeers: From Plot to Stall

A group of Manchester schoolchildren learnt where their food comes from. They then put their new skills into practice. Moreover, they sold their own produce to raise money for FareShare Greater Manchester.

The Young Marketeers came from nine local schools. Over six months, they learnt how to cultivate food on veg plots. They grew their own produce and cared for it carefully. Finally, their hard work culminated in a special market day. Last week, they sold the harvest on Market Street in Manchester city centre.

Taking their produce to market

Dozens of children staffed the stalls, which they decorated with prized produce and colourful artwork. They engaged passers-by with enthusiasm and sold fresh fruit and vegetables to eager shoppers. In addition, the stalls offered plenty of variety. Shoppers could choose from potatoes, carrots, apples, and even beeswax products.

The schools taking part in the Young Marketeers programme included Abbott Community Primary, Co-op Academy in New Islington, Primrose Hill Primary, and St Malachy’s Primary. This is the second year that the Young Marketeers food education programme, run by School Food Matters, has been operating in Manchester and the second time they have supported FareShare Greater Manchester. The education programme teaches children not only about how to grow their own food, but also about food systems and food waste.

“Truly inspiring”

FareShare Greater Manchester Business Engagement Lead Kuda Mangurenje went along to support the Young Marketeers and said “It was such a joy to be there and see all the children so enthusiastic about selling their produce. Their energy, creativity, and commitment were truly inspiring.”

FareShare feels incredibly grateful to be the chosen charity for this event. Even more exciting, the children raised an amazing £784. Every penny will help us reach more people in need. Furthermore, we deeply thank the Young Marketeers for their generous support in making this possible.

You can find out more information here about the Young Marketeers.