Today we’d like to introduce you to Asia Harold.
Hi Asia, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
I began working for the Forsyth Farmers’ Market in 2019. I grew up in a farming family, we still operate an orchard in southern VA on the NC border. I felt very natural to do a job that allowed me honor my family legacy while supporting food access and local agriculture in my new home of Savannah.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There have been struggles along the way as FFM evolved its programming and downsized staff, but that occurred before II took on the role of Executive Director. I was previously the Saturday Market Manager.
We’ve been impressed with Forsyth Farmers’ Market, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The Forsyth Farmers’ Market is a nonprofit organization dedicated to growing a healthy local food system in Savannah. While many people know us as the vibrant Saturday farmers market in Forsyth Park, the market itself is just one part of our mission. Our work connects local farmers with the community, improves access to fresh food, and supports programs that promote health, nutrition, and economic opportunity.
We specialize in supporting local farmers and food producers while ensuring that everyone in our community—regardless of income—has access to fresh, nutritious food. Every Saturday, shoppers can meet the people who grow and produce their food, creating a direct connection between farmers and the community that strengthens the regional food economy.
What truly sets Forsyth Farmers’ Market apart is our commitment to food access and community health. In addition to operating the weekly market, we run programs that help families purchase fresh produce, including SNAP/EBT doubling initiatives, produce prescription programs, and nutrition education. Through partnerships with healthcare providers and community organizations, we are able to connect food directly with health outcomes—making the market a hub for wellness as much as commerce.
We are especially proud of our work expanding access to fresh food across Chatham County. Programs like Farm Fresh 912 and the 912 Food Farmacy connect families with locally grown fruits and vegetables while providing education on how to prepare healthy meals. These initiatives demonstrate that farmers markets can play a meaningful role in addressing food insecurity and chronic disease.
Brand-wise, we are most proud of being known as a mission-driven market—one that celebrates local agriculture while also serving the broader community. People come for the fresh produce, baked goods, and prepared foods, but they stay because of the sense of connection: meeting farmers, supporting small businesses, and participating in a community space that values sustainability, health, and local resilience.
Ultimately, we want readers to know that Forsyth Farmers’ Market is more than a place to shop. It is a community-driven nonprofit working to build a healthier, more equitable food system for Savannah and the surrounding region—one farmer, one family, and one market day at a time.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Look for “mentors in moments,” not just one formal mentor. Instead of searching for a single person to guide everything, learn from different people for different skills—leadership, fundraising, communications, community engagement, etc. Also, build relationships before you need something.
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