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Sixteen years ago, Giany Guedjo and his family left their home in Benin to move to the United States, where they began building a new life in Georgetown County. In this talk, he will share his journey of finding a welcoming community in South Carolina and reflect on how he was able to create a sense of belonging around the Carolina Human Reinvestment (CHRSC) Community Garden, especially during the challenges of COVID-19.
The CHRSC Community Garden, a volunteer-run initiative, has become a hub for resilience and giving. Volunteers have contributed over 20,000 hours of service, cultivating and donating more than 19 tons of fresh produce and an additional 30,000 heads of lettuce grown through its signature hydroponic system — all to support those most in need.
About the Speaker:
Giany Guedjo is one of eight children born to parents who were teachers in Benin, West Africa. Giany moved his family to the US in 2009 with a diversity visa; although he has a master's degree in accounting from Benin, his first job in the US was at a Subway in Georgetown. In 2011, he earned a master's degree in business, graduating as an outstanding student of the year at Webster University, Myrtle Beach. Some of his key achievements include the 2024 Ike Williams Award for Civic Leadership, the 2024 American Hero of the Month Award, and the 2023 Huntington Exemplary Service Award.
Giany Guedjo joined Carolina Human Reinvestment as Executive Director in June 2012. Under his leadership, Carolina Human Reinvestment has transformed lives in our community through programs like FoodShare Georgetown and the CHRSC Community Garden.