Anié is a neurodivergent autist who was born into a life at the intersection of multiple inequalities and discrimination. This created a unique set of circumstances that has led to the forefront of the fight for justice, equity, and access throughout our society.

As a child, food insecurity led to an interest in feeding others, and a desire to establish a farm-to-fork establishment. While in college, beginning to build a business model, Anié discovered that despite the reputation the state had of being an agricultural hub, most things grown and produced in Indiana were not intended for human consumption. Upon realizing that there was no concerted effort in the community actively working to address policy and infrastructure issues, she joined the still-nascent Local Food Council. 

Anié’s passion was a driving force on the policy committee, bringing nationally-recognized speakers to the Food Forum, teaching youth education programs, and engaging in local politics in order to foster and encourage initiatives in the community to address issues such as social justice, food access, women and minorities in business, and racial equity. In both personal and professional arenas, Anié has proven to be a capable community advocate and a passionate servant leader. 

As a result of determined efforts, Anié was chosen for an internship in Washington, D.C. to work on the 2018 Farm Bill drafting and lobbying with the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition and then nominated and recognized as one of NE Indiana’s Forty Under 40 Greater Fort Wayne Business Weekly in 2019. Anié has also served as a USDA/SARE grant reviewer for 3 years and is currently serving a 2nd term as the Midwest BIMPOC (Black, Indigenous, Multiethnic, People of Color) representative on the National Young Farmers Coalition Policy committee.