Centre for Minorities Research Podcast
Thank you to Rachael Jefferies for inviting us on to the Centre for Minorities Research Podcast to talk about our work.
The Centre for Minorities Research is based at the University of St Andrews, St Andrews in Scotland, UK. And the centre’s student-led podcast provides a space for students to creatively explore their research interests.
We’re delighted to feature on the first episode of season 2.
“Growing Flowers in the Desert: A Conversation with the Lemon Tree Trust will reveal how one packet of seeds can bring hope to even the most desolate of situations. In this podcast, Rachael Jefferies, a Master of Arts (Honours) student in French and German, explores the power of gardening with Jennie Spears from the Lemon Tree Trust. Discover stories of displaced individuals and see how the act of gardening becomes a common language of dignity between people and a bridge to build community.”
In the 30 minute episode, we answer questions, such as:
- How did it all start? What was the founder’s inspiration for creating the Lemon Tree Trust?
- What plants do people like to grow?
- How can people that have been displaced use their garden space to move on from their previous lives but also to bridge the link between their previous lives and their current situation?
- Would you say you have come across people who are new to gardening, as well as people who have always enjoyed it?
- Is there anything that we can do as listeners to support the vision of the Lemon Tree Trust?
Listen to the podcast episode.
Photo: Roadside Plant Store flowers, Kurdistan Region of Iraq © Britt Willoughby Dyer
The 2026 Lemon Tree Trust Cooking Competitions have brought together people from different cultural backgrounds to share the dishes and food traditions that are important to them this October. Across the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, our annual competition fixture continues to celebrate the diversity of local communities, while supporting people to connect through growing, preparing … Continued
Harvest time can be a good opportunity to get together, share what we are growing, making or cooking and raise funds for Lemon Tree Trust. Whether you share homegrown produce, enjoy a meal with friends or organise a garden gathering, there are plenty of simple ways to bring people together and support our work. Whether … Continued
Lemon Tree Trust supporter Katie Cox recently raised £1,000 for our work, plus £250 in Gift Aid, by organising an arts and crafts fundraising event at her home and in her garden. Katie is pictured above wearing a rather fabulous green shirt covered in lemons. Katie’s donation was made during our Tree & Plant Appeal, … Continued