ROoTS & ROUTES
Roots & Routes is a one-day gathering exploring the connections between food, migration, memory, heritage, identity, entrepreneurship, and community building. Through conversations, demonstrations, tastings, storytelling, and networking, it brings together diverse communities, researchers, food producers, and cultural leaders to share traditions, exchange ideas, and celebrate the journeys that shape who we are.
Guest Speaker
Olia Hercules
Olia Hercules is an acclaimed Ukrainian chef, food writer, and advocate for preserving Ukraine’s rich culinary heritage. Through bestselling books including Mamushka and Strong Roots, she shares stories of family, memory, migration, and resilience through food. Her work has helped bring Ukrainian cuisine to international audiences while celebrating the traditions and landscapes that shape it. A passionate storyteller and community builder, Olia uses food as a bridge between cultures, generations, and histories.
Guest Speaker
VADYM GRANOVSKIY
Vadym Granovskiy is a Ukrainian entrepreneur, coffee expert, and founder of the pioneering coffee project Flat Red, dedicated to uncovering and sharing Ukraine’s forgotten coffee heritage. Through meticulous historical research, storytelling, and cultural diplomacy, he has helped reveal Ukraine’s centuries-old connections to coffee, trade, and global exchange. His work demonstrates how food and drink can become powerful tools for preserving identity, strengthening resilience, and building international understanding.
FILM SCREENING
TASTE OF FREEDOM
Taste of Freedom is a warm and uplifting Ukrainian film about dreams, identity, and the power of food to connect us to our roots. The story follows a young woman who rediscovers her purpose through the rich culinary traditions and forgotten recipes of Ukraine. Blending humour, history, and heartfelt storytelling, the film celebrates the people, flavours, and cultural heritage that shape a nation. It is a delicious cinematic journey that reminds us how food can preserve memory, inspire resilience, and bring communities together.
FULL SCHEDULE
The day features an inspiring programme of keynote talks, panel discussions, food demonstrations, community conversations, tastings, and hands-on cultural experiences. Guests will hear from leading voices including food writer and broadcaster Olia Hercules and coffee historian and entrepreneur Vadym Granovskiy, alongside community leaders, food producers, researchers, and entrepreneurs from across Devon and beyond. Throughout the day, participants will have opportunities to connect, share stories, explore food traditions from different cultures, and build new relationships across communities.
