Cultivating Roots for a Stronger Future
As part of our 2025 Grants Program, we are proud to be supporting and walking alongside Byron Youth Service, a not-for-profit charity organisation working closely with the community to develop and deliver innovative and supportive programs that are responsive to the needs of young people and their families.
Byron Youth Services is a recipient of Ingrained Foundation’s 2025 Grant Program, using the funding to help restore and revitalise their permaculture garden through their Future Forest Regeneration Project - rebuilding a garden damaged by Cyclone Alfred, and returning to the origins of food systems and community connection.
The Future Forest is a living classroom, where young people can come to learn about climate resilience, sustainable food systems, and the power of community.
Through the educational workshops funded by Ingrained Foundation, they’re learning to grow more than food—they’re growing confidence, skills, and a deeper connection to the land.
Ingrained Board Member Saira at the Byron Youth Service Working Bee
"We are so grateful for the support of Ingrained. This type of local support goes such a long way to making The YAC one of the most unique youth and community spaces in NSW. Place-based initiatives such as Ingrained make the work we do possible."
— Christian Tancred, General Manager, BYS
On August 26, Byron Youth Services commenced the Future Forest Regeneration Project with the Ingrained Foundation Board and community partners. Guided by Christian and Janene, volunteers gathered to clear weeds, plant trees, and share food and laughter.
Future Forest Regeneration Project working bee
Bundjalung artist and Ingrained Cultural Advisor, Kylie Caldwell, also led a weaving and yarning circle, grounding the day in cultural wisdom and connection to Country.
Ingrained Board Member Tans at the Weaving and Yarning Circle led by Kylie Caldwell.
The Future Forest Regeneration Project is about going back to the beginning. It’s about understanding where our food comes from, how we care for the land, and what it means to build community resilience and engage with the environment in meaningful ways, in the face of climate insecurity.
As we continue to walk alongside Byron Youth Services, supporting them to invest in young people and empower them to care for the land, we’re planting the seeds for a more connected, sustainable, and hopeful future.
Future Forest Regeneration Project working bee