How the UK’s first Black Farmers Market came to life
Back in 2016, on the bustling streets of Brixton Market, Natasha Pencil and Aisha Jade were two women with a passion for their craft. Natasha was the face behind Taino, a condiment brand inspired by Caribbean flavors. Her creations—ranging from spicy hot sauces to a velvety pumpkin butter—were all vegan, handmade, and gluten-free, a love letter to her heritage. Aisha, meanwhile, was shaking things up in the drinks scene with Carisips, a natural, sparkling beverage brand also rooted in Caribbean traditions. With no added sugar and up to four refreshing flavors, her drinks were redefining how we think about sipping locally.
For three years, they traded on Brixton Market, connecting with locals who relished their creations. But when the market closed in 2019, it left a void—not just for them, but for the community. Farmers’ markets were flourishing across London, yet opportunities for Black growers and artisans seemed scarce. Something had to change.
Fast-forward to 2022. Natasha and Aisha had spent years building a network of small businesses, growers, and makers. Many shared the same frustrations: they wanted a space that celebrated their craft and heritage, where their stories could be told alongside their products. The vision for something bigger began to take root.
Then came a fateful September evening. With just a week until the launch of their new market, Natasha called her cousin Larissa. “We need a promo video,” she said. Larissa delivered. The video went viral, igniting excitement across the community. By October 8th, the dream became reality: the UK’s first Black Farmers Market came to life on Brixton Station Road.
The turnout was electric. Over 3,000 people showed up, flooding the street with energy and nostalgia, like a throwback to Brixton’s golden days. Seven businesses completely sold out of stock, proving what Natasha and Aisha had always known—this market wasn’t just wanted; it was needed.
Formerly known as Black Farmer’s Market CIC, today, that initial spark has grown into Black Growth CIC. No longer just a market, it’s a movement. The mission is to provide a safe space for Black growers and entrepreneurs to thrive while reconnecting the community with the land and its produce. Through markets, educational programs, and sustainability initiatives, Natasha alongside directors Obie and Larissa are tackling food poverty, restoring the relationship between Black communities and agriculture, and building a system that interconnects community, climate, and culture.
From a single viral video to a thriving platform for growth, Black Growth CIC is more than just a market—it’s a story of resilience, innovation, and the power of coming together to achieve change.
