Community Conversation: Victory Gardens with Joe's Movement Emporium

Co-presented with the Prince George's County Office of Human Rights

The Prince George's County Office of Human Rights and the Prince George's County Memorial Library System are excited to host soil-to-table agricultural apprentice and culinary creator Rayven C. Smith and Camille Kashaka, Managing Director for Joe’s Movement Emporium and Creative Suitland, in conversation about Victory Gardens.

Registration not required. Click on the YouTube video linked below to stream the program live or watch the recording later.

About our guests:

Rayven C. Smith is an agricultural apprentice, culinary practitioner, and founder of Chef Rayven, LLC. She has trained and worked hands-on across farms throughout the DMV region as a “WWOOFer1” and independent agricultural collaborator, gaining direct experience in sustainable growing practices, soil stewardship, food production, and local market supply.

Rooted in land-based learning, Rayven approaches food as both nourishment and responsibility. Her work connects soil to table; exploring how historical movements like the 1940s Victory Gardens inform modern conversations about food resilience, community stewardship, and youth leadership in agriculture. Through growing, cooking, and teaching, she is committed to strengthening local food systems from the ground up.

Born in Baltimore, Maryland in the early 2000’s, Rayven’s journey into food began with a deep passion for baking and culinary creativity. After completing two years of high school, she chose to pursue formal culinary training, dedicating herself fully to developing her craft. What began as a love for baking evolved into a broader calling; one that integrates land stewardship, culinary expression, community, and faith.

As a Christian Black woman and emerging agricultural practitioner, Rayven views her work with the land as both a responsibility and a blessing. An opportunity bestowed to steward soil, nourish community, and grow with intention. Her brand, Chef Rayven, reflects this unique blend of agricultural discipline, culinary talent, and a commitment to serving others through food.

With plans to continue expanding her agricultural knowledge, certifications, and community partnerships, Rayven is building a soil-to-table practice rooted in purpose and long-term vision.

Camille Kashaka (she/her/hers) currently serves as the Managing Director for Joe’s Movement Emporium and Creative Suitland. She is excited to be contributing to the broad and powerful community focused cultural and artistic impact of these institutions. 
 
She is the former Executive Director of Motor House in Baltimore, MD, Interim Managing Director of Hattiloo Theatre in Memphis, TN, and Director of the Anacostia Arts Center in Washington, DC. 
 
Camille received her BFA from Howard University in Theatre Administration and her Masters from American University in Arts Management. It is with this specific blend of cultural, artistic, and professional experience that she hopes to add to the eclectic cultural ecosystem of Prince George’s County.