Symbrosia Farm Ambassador: Rizpah Bellard
Our Commitment to Sustainable Agriculture: The Farm Ambassador Initiative
The Farm Ambassador Initiative is designed to connect with devoted farmers, ranchers, and livestock experts who are equally passionate about shaping the future of agriculture in harmony with the environment. We've handpicked a team of four exceptional individuals to serve as the vanguard of our efforts, providing an insider's look at our pioneering work. These ambassadors act as vital conduits, ensuring fluid dialogue between the heart of the livestock sector and our cutting-edge feed additive solutions. Through this initiative, we aim to build a bridge to a sustainable future, uniting innovative practices with the time-honored traditions of farming.
Bridging the Gap Between Society and Nature Through Agriculture and Social Entrepreneurship
In the realm of modern agriculture and social reform, Rizpah Bellard stands out as a figure of inspiration and innovation. A Cornell University alumna with a degree in Biology & Society, Rizpah's upbringing on a Black Angus cattle ranch imbued her with a profound connection to the land, an experience that seamlessly integrated with her academic pursuits. Her journey exemplifies a rare blend of natural science and social science, aimed at addressing the critical imbalances within our society and the environment.
A Mission to Reconnect Humans with Their Food
Rizpah has dedicated her professional life to tackling complex issues that lie at the intersection of society and biology, including human trafficking, mental health, homelessness, global health, and education. Through years of engagement with socially disadvantaged populations, she has identified a significant issue: a growing disconnect between humans and their sources of food. This realization sparked a drive within Rizpah to forge a solution.
Nova Farming: A Catalyst for Change
In response, Rizpah founded Nova Farming, an entrepreneurial venture aimed at demystifying the agriculture sector for the general public. Through Nova Farming, she strives to showcase the accessibility and significance of agriculture, both within the United States and globally. Her work has taken her to diverse agricultural landscapes, from Changchun, China, to Cali, Colombia, and most recently, Akure, Nigeria. In each location, Rizpah's goal remains the same: to educate and inspire a new generation of farmers and ranchers who can bridge the gap between society and nature.
Blynd Essence, Inc.: Tackling Homelessness with Compassion
Rizpah's commitment to social change extends beyond agriculture. She also founded Blynd Essence, Inc., a company that provides shared affordable housing for adults experiencing homelessness in Fresno County, California. Recognizing the acute need for supportive environments for those living with severe mental illnesses or battling substance abuse, Blynd Essence seeks to offer not just housing, but a chance for a dignified life. Rizpah's exceptional leadership in this endeavor earned her the Operator of the Year award in both 2023 and 2024, highlighting her impactful contributions to Fresno County's Independent Living Association.
Academic Excellence and Recognition
Rizpah's pursuit of knowledge and her drive to effect change did not stop with her undergraduate studies. She furthered her education at The University of Denver's Josef Korbel School of International Studies, where she earned a Master of Arts in International Human Rights, with a concentration in Human Trafficking and Forced Labor, as well as a Certificate in Global Health. Her scholarly achievements and dedication to human rights were recognized with the prestigious Fulbright Scholar Award in 2020. Additionally, her efforts and impact in agriculture were celebrated when she was named a member of COWGIRL Magazine’s 30 Under 30 Class of 2024, marking her as a leading figure in the industry.
A Vision for the Future
Rizpah Bellard's story is not just one of personal achievement but a beacon of hope for the future. Through her ventures in Nova Farming and Blynd Essence, Inc., as well as her academic and professional accolades, Rizpah embodies the spirit of innovation and compassion. Her work serves as a reminder of the power of combining knowledge, empathy, and action to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. As she continues to build bridges between society and nature, Rizpah Bellard inspires us all to consider how we might contribute to a more sustainable, equitable, and connected world.
🐮 Q&A with Rizpah
What's one thing you wish more people knew about farming?
I wish more people knew how accessible the agriculture sector is! I always tell students, no matter what their interests are, they can find a way to use their knowledge and skill set in the agriculture sector to help feed society.
What's your fun fact about cattle?
Even though cows are big, they can get out of the smallest spaces! Any hole or break in the fence and they're gone, disappeared into the neighbors pasture, so be on the lookout!
What were your initial thoughts when you heard about SeaGraze?
To be honest, I pictured cows eating seaweed in the ocean! LOL But as I've read up on the product and met with the Symbrosia team, I've come to understand that the ocean is being brought to the cattle.
But all jokes aside, months before I was approached by Symbrosia, I watched a mini-documentary on Business Insider about the use of seaweed to replace plastic and I thought "Wow, who knew you could make plastic from seaweed?" and with SeaGraze, I'm thinking the same thing, "Wow, who know you could make cattle feed from seaweed?" I continue to be amazed by the ingenious products humans make from products of the sea.
What excites you the most about working with Symbrosia?
For one, any company that collaborates with my alma mater for top notch research is my type of company!
Secondly, I am excited to be a part of a company that is forward thinking in the agriculture industry. I always tell students, agriculture is innovative! The industry has to adapt to feed more people and do it in a responsible way as stewards of the land.
Lastly, I am excited to be in conversation with fellow farmers and ranchers! Us agrarians tend to be siloed on our farms and ranches; being a Farmer Ambassador for Symbrosia gives me a chance to see what's going on in all regions of the USA and to have connections across the world.
