Katharina Stieffenhofer
Documentary, Canada
Runtime 58 min.
…And This is My Garden, a documentary from Winnipeg filmmaker Katharina Stieffenhofer, explores an innovative school gardening program that is breaking new ground in education and literally growing a healthier community in the process.
The film, set in the small northern community of Wabowden, Manitoba, follows schoolteacher Eleanor Woitowicz as she spearheads an education-based sustainable food movement called the Mel Johnson School Gardening Project. The initiative, based on the Frontier School Division’s science curriculum “Veggie Adventures” was introduced into the Mel Johnson School in 2006. Woitowicz teaches students how to take care of their own backyard vegetable gardens and reap the rewards of growing their own organic foods. Students develop valuable skills in sustainable food production, healthy lifestyle choices and food preparation, while fostering a sense of responsibility, pride and increased self-esteem.
Woitowicz was awarded a Manitoba Excellence in Sustainability Award for her educational efforts in 2009. …And This Is My Garden won “Most Inspirational Film” Award at the EcoFocus Film Festival in Athens, Georgia
…And This is My Garden trailer
…And This is My Garden official site
Screening Friday, November 11 at 4pm in the Al Whittle Theatre