The VAL AGM was held on Wednesday 27 September and the theme for this year’s event was FeastiVAL, showcasing and celebrating the third sector’s work related to food including keynote speakers and stalls from community organisations.

VAL’s Chair, Chris Hollins, opened the event with highlights of the year and introduced the keynote speakers: Nathan Atkinson from Rethink Food UK, a video from Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung about the work of the Little London Food Pantry, and Sonja Woodcock from FoodWise Leeds.

Hannah Bailey, Chief Officer of VAL, introduced the VAL strategy for 23-26 and gave an overview of VAL’s plans for the year ahead and beyond. 

The community stalls from FoodWise Leeds, Leeds North & West Foodbank, Leeds South & East Foodbank, Hamara Healthy Living Centre and Give a Gift Leeds were popular with visitors and lunch was provided by Surplus To Purpose. 

Guests were also encouraged to sign up for FoodWise pledges – committing to actions for individuals and organisations related to food, health and wellbeing and sustainability.

 Thank you to everyone who came to the event and everyone involved in making it a success.