Students Explore Hmong Culture Through Gardening Program

By Scout Nelson

The University of Minnesota Extension recently completed the second and final year of its Noj Qab Nyob Zoo program at Prairie Seeds Academy in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota. The program, which means “Eat well, live well” in Hmong, was designed to help students explore Hmong culture, nutrition, and agricultural traditions through hands-on learning experiences.

Over a six-week period, students in grades three through five participated in activities that combined cultural education, healthy eating lessons, gardening, and community engagement. The initiative aimed to strengthen students’ understanding of their heritage while building skills related to nutrition, food production, and wellness.

According to Gold Lor, EFNEP Health and Wellness Regional Coordinator, the program was developed to provide a meaningful learning experience for participants. The curriculum was designed to connect cultural traditions with practical knowledge that students could apply in their daily lives.

The program was delivered by a team of Extension educators, including Lani Xiong, Mai Xiong, Shirley Vang, and Tou Yang. Support also came from community partners such as SPARK Youth, chefs Blong Vang and Diane Moua, and local Hmong farmers who shared their expertise and cultural knowledge.

One of the program’s primary goals was to help students connect classroom lessons with experiences at home. Through food tastings, gardening activities, and cultural discussions, participants explored both familiar and new foods while learning about their significance in Hmong traditions.

The initiative placed a strong emphasis on agriculture and gardening, which have long been central to Hmong culture and values of self-sufficiency and resilience. Program leaders noted that many younger generations have become increasingly disconnected from these traditions as families adapted to life in the United States.

Lor emphasized the importance of preserving agricultural knowledge and cultural practices for future generations. The program encouraged meaningful connections between students, elders, and local farmers, allowing young people to learn directly from community members with valuable experience and insight.

As part of the project, a greenhouse and dedicated garden space filled with vegetables, herbs, and flowers were established at Prairie Seeds Academy. These resources will remain on campus as living classrooms, providing future students with opportunities to learn about gardening, nutrition, and traditional food systems.

By combining cultural education, hands-on agriculture, and community involvement, the Noj Qab Nyob Zoo program helped students strengthen their connection to Hmong heritage while developing practical life skills. The lasting garden and greenhouse spaces will continue to support learning and cultural engagement for years to come.

Photo Credit: university-of-minnesota