Business
Agape Organic Farms
Website: agapeorganicfarms.com
Instagram: @agapeorganicfarms
Facebook: Agape Organic Farms
Shara Trierweiler
About Shara
Born and raised in the lush, tropical landscapes of St. Lucia, I developed a deep love for the environment and animals at a young age, thanks to my grand uncle, an inspiring environmentalist and forester; Gabriel Charles.. Much of my formative years were spent trekking through rainforests alongside biologists, environmentalists, and zoologists, experiences that shaped my appreciation for nature and its intricate ecosystems.
Despite my passion for the environment, my mother encouraged me to pursue a more traditional path, leading me to business school where I earned my MBA. I transitioned into the finance and investment sector, a world far removed from the natural landscapes of my childhood. However, a chance encounter with a pig farmer at the Ohio State Fair ignited a spark within me and redirected my life’s trajectory.
Today, I am proud to be the founder of Agape Organic Farms, a certified organic 30-acre farm located in Dansville, Michigan. Our farm specializes in purebred Berkshire pork and gourmet mushrooms, including mushroom grow kits, all produced using science-based, regenerative farming methods that prioritize the health of the environment, animals, and humans alike.
At Agape Organic Farms, we believe that food is a fundamental human right. This belief drives our tireless efforts in advocacy and food justice, as we strive to make healthy, organic food accessible to all. I am honored to be the only Black-owned livestock farm in Michigan and one of only two Black-owned certified organic farms in the state.
Through Agape Organic Farms, I am committed to nurturing a sustainable future while honoring my roots and the environment that has shaped me.
What inspired you to start a business?
My inspiration to start a business came from a combination of my upbringing and personal experiences. Growing up in St. Lucia, I developed a profound love for the environment and animals, thanks to my grand uncle, an environmentalist and forester. Trekking through rainforests with biologists and zoologists during my youth instilled in me a deep appreciation for nature and sustainability.
However, my journey took a different turn when I pursued an MBA and entered the finance and investment world, largely due to my mother’s encouragement. While I gained valuable skills in business, I felt a longing to connect with the land and make a meaningful impact.
The pivotal moment came when I met a pig farmer at the Ohio State Fair. Her passion for sustainable farming and the joy she found in her work reignited my desire to return to my roots. I realized I could combine my business acumen with my love for the environment by starting Agape Organic Farms.
I wanted to create a farm that not only produces high-quality, organic food but also promotes regenerative farming practices and advocates for food justice. This venture allows me to honor my values and contribute to a healthier planet, while ensuring that everyone has access to nutritious food. Ultimately, my inspiration stems from a desire to make a positive impact on the world around me.
What is your vision for the future of your business?
The vision for the future of Agape Organic Farms is to create a thriving, financially viable operation that allows me to focus entirely on sustainable farming practices while making a meaningful impact in my community. Despite the recognition and awards we’ve received for our commitment to organic farming and food justice, our growth has been hindered by a lack of capital and support. This has necessitated my off-farm job, which limits my ability to dedicate myself fully to the farm and its potential.
My goal is to achieve financial viability and profitability, enabling me to transition to working full-time on Agape Organic Farms. I envision a future where the farm not only sustains itself but also flourishes, allowing us to expand our offerings and contribute more significantly to the local food system.
In addition to enhancing the farm’s operational success, I am passionate about expanding our advocacy work. I aim to develop educational programs for at-risk youth, providing them with hands-on experience in farming, environmental stewardship, and healthy eating. By teaching the next generation about sustainable agriculture and the importance of food justice, I hope to inspire them to become advocates for their own communities.
Ultimately, my vision is to create a sustainable farm that serves as a model for regenerative practices, empowers youth through education, and contributes to a healthier, more equitable food system for all.
What goals do you hope the Elevate program will help you achieve?
From the Ascend program, I hope to gain the support, structure, and accountability that I need to elevate Agape Organic Farms to a new level of success. As a dedicated farmer, I often find myself overwhelmed by the daily operational duties, which can make it challenging to focus on the administrative side of the business. This struggle has hindered my ability to implement long-term strategies for growth and profitability.
By participating in the Ascend program, I aim to receive guidance on best practices for managing the administrative aspects of my farm. I believe that with access to mentorship and resources, I can develop effective systems and processes that will streamline operations and allow me to focus more on strategic planning and advocacy work.
Additionally, the accountability aspect of the program is crucial for me. Having a structured environment where I can set specific goals and receive regular feedback will help me stay on track and motivated. I am eager to connect with other entrepreneurs who share similar challenges and learn from their experiences. This sense of community and support can be invaluable as I work towards achieving financial viability and expanding my impact.
Ultimately, I hope the Ascend program will empower me to transform my vision for Agape Organic Farms into reality, enabling me to create a sustainable, profitable business that serves both my community and the environment effectively.