Ready to grow something real?
introducing…
where future farmers dreams take root
Do you dream of starting your own farm, building a community garden, saving seeds, or fighting for food justice? Or perhaps you’d simply like to spend more days outside and learn something new? Do you want to make a real difference in your community and environment through urban food systems, but you're not sure where to begin?
— this is your beginning —
Launching February 2027, SemiYa is an 8-month paid apprenticeship (2 days a week) for 4 apprentices ready to become the next generation of urban farmers and land stewards in Orange County, CA. You'll get hands-on experience, real skills, and a community of people growing alongside you.
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why is it called SemiYa!?
Semilla is the Spanish word for seed and ‘ya’ is the word for already or now. We’re sowing the seeds of change in our community by bringing together a diverse cohort of future food growers and land stewards. We're building a stronger, more resilient, and more just food system, one that starts right here at home and the time is now!
SemiYa is open to all, and it centers the experiences of communities most impacted by systemic oppression in the Santa Ana area, because the people closest to the challenges should be at the heart of the solutions.
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are you a potential apprentice who:
Is interested in developing farming skills into a profession
Has experience or are passionate about growing food, urban farms, food sovereignty, agroecology, permaculture or building community
Has passion! College degree or formal education is not required, passion is enough!
Lives in Orange County
Is 18+, we encourage anyone who is interested to apply regardless of age
Is able to be present and on time to all scheduled days and commit to the 8-month program
Is open to sharing and receiving feedback
Is committed to working collaboratively, practicing kind communication and conflict resolution
Understands this is a temporary paid position of $22/hour that will be taxable income for the year 2027
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Where does the program take place?
Hosted at Grace Community Farm in Orange
800 N Cambridge St, Orange 92867 in Orange County
Occasional field trips in and around OC, we will provide transportation.
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When does the program take place?
An 8 month program starting February 3, 2027 and running until September 24, 2027 for 10 hours a week.
Meeting times are Wednesday 8am-12pm and Friday 8-12pm with flexible 2 hours on Saturdays.
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why should i join?
This program is meant to help BIPOC folx in underrepresented communities wanting to develop professionally as urban farmers to bring a positive and lasting impact not only to you and your community but to the earth as well. If this is something that interests you, please apply!
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Important Dates
Applications Open: October 12, 2026
Deadline to Apply: November 13,, 2026
Brief Interviews Completed by September 18, 2026
Application Status Update by September 21, 2026
Apertura de solicitudes: 24 de julio de 2026
Fecha límite de solicitud: 21 de agosto de 2026
Finalización de entrevistas breves: 18 de septiembre de 2026
Notificación del estado de la solicitud: 21 de septiembre de 2026
What to expect during work sessions?
There will be an hour lecture that will transition into SOP (Standard of Operations) training and hands-on learning activities at the farm. Flexible 2 hours that can be used on an optional day on Saturday where you can use the time however you would like to read articles, watch documentaries, study field manuals or have more hands-on experience at the farm. Up to you! There will be occasional guest lectures and field trips on scheduled days with an advance notice as well.
Modules include Agroecology, Seed Justice, Nursery Work, Soil Health, Composting, Plant and Crop Care, Harvesting, Marketing and a Capstone project at the end of the program.
10 hours a week for $22/hour, 2-3 days a week
Meet Your facilitators
Sam
Monet is a lifelong educator with a passion for creating accessible, engaging learning experiences. Known for a calm, encouraging teaching style, Monet believes that growth happens when learners feel both challenged and supported.
David
Emmett is a detail-oriented instructor who’s spent the past decade helping people develop new tools, habits, and mindsets. Their approach is clear, practical, and always infused with curiosity and care.
Steve
Eleanor's background spans education, coaching, and creative development. With a strong focus on process and progress, Eleanor helps learners move from where they are to where they want to be—one step at a time.