Layla Hassan

“I may be a farmer, but I'm also an activist. I believe that every person has the right to love who they want and live their lives without fear.”

Growing up in Mogadishu, Layla learned the importance of hard work and perseverance. After fleeing the civil war in Somalia, she found a new home in Rome, where she discovered her love for farming. Despite facing discrimination as a gay woman, Layla has never let it hold her back. On her farm, she grows an assortment of vegetables, fruits, and herbs that she shares with her community. Layla remains committed to making a difference in the world, one harvest at a time.

What inspired you to become a farmer?

When I first moved to Rome, I missed the flavors of home. I started growing herbs in my window and soon realized I had a green thumb. It grew from there.

How has being gay affected your life as a farmer?

It's definitely not easy. People make assumptions about me and my community. But farming has taught me resilience, and I channel that into everything I do.